Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Prepare for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get ready for your certification test!

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What is cardiac output equal to?

  1. Heart rate divided by stroke volume

  2. Stroke volume multiplied by heart rate

  3. Blood pressure times heart rate

  4. Stroke volume divided by blood pressure

The correct answer is: Stroke volume multiplied by heart rate

Cardiac output is a crucial measurement in understanding the efficiency and performance of the heart, reflecting the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute. The formula for cardiac output is derived from two key components: stroke volume, which is the amount of blood ejected by the heart with each beat, and heart rate, which is the number of heartbeats per minute. When you multiply stroke volume by heart rate, you get the total volume of blood being circulated through the body in one minute—this represents the cardiac output. Therefore, the correct answer accurately captures this fundamental relationship. Understanding this concept is essential for EMTs, as it helps assess a patient's cardiovascular status. For instance, changes in heart rate or stroke volume can indicate various medical conditions, making this knowledge vital for effective patient assessment and intervention.