NREMT Paramedic Practice

What condition is indicated by elevated end-diastolic blood volume?

1. Left atrial enlargement

2. Left ventricular failure

3. Pulmonary embolism

4. Myocardial infarction

The correct answer is: Left ventricular failure

Elevated end-diastolic blood volume is primarily indicative of left ventricular failure. In this condition, the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised, leading to an accumulation of blood in the left ventricle. As the left ventricle struggles to eject blood during contraction, more blood fills the chamber during diastole, resulting in increased end-diastolic volume. This can lead to various symptoms, including pulmonary congestion due to increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation. While left atrial enlargement could be a consideration since it may occur as a consequence of left ventricular failure, it is not the primary condition indicated by an increased end-diastolic volume. Conditions like pulmonary embolism and myocardial infarction can also lead to changes in cardiac function but are not directly indicated by elevated end-diastolic blood volume; rather, they present with different pathophysiological mechanisms.