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Cardiac output is calculated by multiplying heart rate by stroke volume. This measurement represents the total volume of blood that the heart pumps per minute. Heart rate refers to the number of times the heart beats in one minute, while stroke volume is the amount of blood pumped by the left ventricle of the heart in one contraction. By using the formula of heart rate multiplied by stroke volume, you can determine the cardiac output, which is crucial for assessing the efficiency of the heart and the blood flow to the body.

This calculation is fundamental in understanding cardiovascular health and function. When either heart rate or stroke volume increases, cardiac output also increases, supporting the body’s metabolic demands. Recognizing this relationship is essential for healthcare professionals monitoring patients’ heart health or managing conditions that may impact cardiac performance.