Cardiac output is one of the most important—and most misunderstood—concepts in critical care. In this episode, we break down cardiac output from first principles and connect it directly to cardiogenic shock, so you can understand not just the numbers—but how to apply them at the bedside. We cover: The cardiac output equation (CO = HR × SV) and what it actually means How preload, contractility, and afterload determine stroke volume The Frank-Starling relationship and fluid responsiveness The Fick equation and how cardiac output can be measured How cardiac output fails in cardiogenic shock Practical approaches to diagnosis and management in the ICU and ED Whether you’re managing hypotension, shock, or complex hemodynamics, this episode gives you a clear physiologic framework to guide real-time clinical decision-making. 🎥 Watch the full video version here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtxfjPTOIRc 📚 Download the full study guide + access our complete emergency critical care curriculum: https://www.patreon.com/c/WhiteBoardMedicine Our Patreon includes: • Study guides for every video • Mini-courses (ventilation, shock, RRT & more) • Practice questions • Ad-free videos • A structured ICU curriculum Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical decisions should be made by licensed healthcare professionals using their clinical judgment, institutional protocols, and current evidence. Whiteboard Medicine assumes no responsibility for clinical outcomes.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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