What is the normal range for Cardiac Output (CO)?

Cardiac Output (CO) is a critical cardiovascular parameter defined as the volume of blood the heart pumps per minute. Understanding the normal range for CO is essential for evaluating a patient's circulatory status and managing conditions that can affect heart function.

The normal range for Cardiac Output in a healthy adult is typically 4 to 8 liters per minute. This range reflects the vital role of the heart in maintaining adequate blood flow to meet the metabolic demands of tissues throughout the body. A CO within this range suggests that the heart is functioning effectively, providing sufficient blood supply to organs and tissues.

It is important to recognize that various factors can influence Cardiac Output, including heart rate, stroke volume, and systemic vascular resistance. Any deviation from the normal range could indicate underlying health issues, requiring further assessment and intervention.

In contrast, the other ranges provided do not align with established clinical standards for Cardiac Output in healthy adults, making them unsuitable as normal values. These discrepancies highlight the importance of familiarizing oneself with the recognized physiological parameters in adult-gerontology acute care settings.