PAEA Surgery End Of Rotation (EOR) Practice Exam

What characteristic is true about hypotension in cardiac tamponade?

1. It only occurs during exercise.

2. It can be transient and self-resolving.

3. It is a result of reduced cardiac output.

4. It does not affect blood flow.

The correct answer is: It is a result of reduced cardiac output.

In the context of cardiac tamponade, hypotension is primarily a result of reduced cardiac output. Cardiac tamponade occurs when fluid accumulates in the pericardial space, leading to increased pressure on the heart. This pressure restricts the heart's ability to fill properly during diastole, which in turn diminishes stroke volume and, consequently, cardiac output. When cardiac output decreases, blood pressure falls, leading to hypotension. Therefore, the connection between hypotension and reduced cardiac output is pivotal in understanding the pathophysiology of cardiac tamponade. This is particularly significant in clinical practice, as recognizing the relationship helps in diagnosing and managing patients. Hypotension in cardiac tamponade can be a critical indicator, prompting immediate intervention to relieve the pressure around the heart and restore proper hemodynamics.