Hemodynamic Series: Stroke Volume

• This episode marks the start of a new series on hemodynamics. I will be starting with stroke volume as it is one of the determinant factors of cardiac output along with heart rate. CO=SV X HR. There is a lot of information we can take away from stroke volume and the derivatives of the measurement but most importantly it is a much more reliant predictor of fluid responsiveness. This article goes into more detail: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3547212/                                  

• To clarify on the last point made about the swinging of the arterial line and the ability to visualize stroke volume variation. Just know that if there is a drop in systolic peaks with inspiration on a non-intubated patient this could be indicative of cardiac tamponade (pulses paradoxus). Please use your clinical judgment when utilizing this tip.

Thanks for listening!