How do you calculate cardiac output?

Cardiac output is a critical measurement in cardiology that reflects the efficiency of the heart in pumping blood throughout the body. It is calculated by multiplying the heart rate, which is the number of heartbeats per minute, by the stroke volume, which is the amount of blood pumped by the heart with each beat. This formula underscores the relationship between the heart's action rate and the volume of blood being pushed out with each contraction, providing a holistic view of the heart's performance.

By using the multiplication of heart rate and stroke volume, one can determine the total amount of blood the heart is able to circulate in one minute, which is essential for assessing how well the cardiovascular system is functioning during different physiological states or in response to various medical conditions.