Explain the factors that affect cardiac output.  In your answer provide one example of a positive inotropic agent and one example of a positive chronotropic agent.  For each of those examples, explain what specifically happens to the cells of the heart when they have their effect.

What will be an ideal response?


CO = SV × HR, so a positive inotropic agent increases calcium levels in the muscle cells.  A positive chronotropic agent usually causes the SA node to reach threshold more quickly.

Anatomy & Physiology

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