{"id":176021,"date":"2026-08-12T10:40:23","date_gmt":"2026-08-12T10:40:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/?p=176021"},"modified":"2026-08-12T10:44:25","modified_gmt":"2026-08-12T10:44:25","slug":"fick-cardiac-output","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/","title":{"rendered":"Fick cardiac output: Formula, worked example, and free worksheet"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@type\":\"MedicalWebPage\",\"headline\":\"Fick cardiac output: formula, worked example, and free worksheet\",\"description\":\"How to calculate cardiac output with the Fick equation, CO = VO2 \/ [(CaO2 - CvO2) x 10], including normal ranges, sources of error, and a free worksheet.\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/\",\"audience\":{\"@type\":\"MedicalAudience\",\"audienceType\":\"Clinician\"},\"reviewedBy\":{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"name\":\"Dr Vanja Kitanova\",\"jobTitle\":\"Medical Reviewer\",\"affiliation\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Pabau\"},\"knowsAbout\":[\"Cardiac Physiology\",\"Hemodynamic Assessment\",\"Clinical Documentation\",\"Medical Calculation Tools\"],\"sameAs\":\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/author\/vanja\/\"},\"mainEntity\":{\"@type\":\"DigitalDocument\",\"name\":\"Fick cardiac output worksheet\",\"description\":\"A one-page hemodynamic worksheet with fields for VO2, hemoglobin, arterial and venous saturations, oxygen content, cardiac output, and cardiac index.\",\"encodingFormat\":\"application\/pdf\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/cdn.pabau.com\/cdn\/attachments\/pulse\/content-engine\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/fick-cardiac-output.pdf\",\"inLanguage\":\"en\",\"isAccessibleForFree\":true,\"offers\":{\"@type\":\"Offer\",\"price\":\"0\",\"priceCurrency\":\"GBP\",\"availability\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/InStock\"},\"hasDigitalDocumentPermission\":{\"@type\":\"DigitalDocumentPermission\",\"permissionType\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\/ReadPermission\"},\"author\":{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"name\":\"Pabau\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/www.pabau.com\"},\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-11\"},\"datePublished\":\"2026-08-11\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-08-12\"}<\/script>\n\n\n        <div id=\"key_takeaways\">\n            <div class=\"header\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Key-Takeaways-Icon.svg\" alt=\"Key takeaways\" height=\"42\" width=\"42\">\n                                <h3>Key takeaways<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"list\">\n                                                            <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Fick cardiac output is VO2 divided by the arteriovenous oxygen difference multiplied by 10, which returns liters per minute.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>The multiplier matters because oxygen content is reported per 100 mL of blood, while VO2 is reported per minute.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Normal cardiac output is 4 to 8 L\/min, and normal cardiac index is 2.5 to 4.0 L\/min\/m\u00b2.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Direct Fick measures VO2 with a metabolic cart, while indirect Fick estimates it and carries 15 to 25% error.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#3D3D46\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p>Recording whether VO2 was measured or estimated is what makes the result reviewable weeks later.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<div style=\"background: linear-gradient(135deg, #E2F2FD 0%, #DFE3FD 100%); border-radius: 16px; padding: 40px; margin: 32px 0;\">\n<h2 style=\"margin: 0 0 12px 0; font-size: 22px; color: #121d36;\">Download your free Fick cardiac output worksheet<\/h2>\n<p style=\"margin: 0 0 20px 0; color: #444; font-size: 15px;\">A one-page worksheet for right heart catheterization. Fields cover VO2 and its source, hemoglobin, and both oxygen saturations. Space is laid out for oxygen content, the arteriovenous difference, cardiac output, and cardiac index.<\/p>\n<a style=\"display: inline-block; background: #037CD2; color: #fff; padding: 14px 28px; border-radius: 8px; text-decoration: none; font-weight: 600; font-size: 15px;\" href=\"https:\/\/cdn.pabau.com\/cdn\/attachments\/pulse\/content-engine\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/fick-cardiac-output.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Download template<\/a>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Fick cardiac output is oxygen consumption divided by the arteriovenous oxygen difference, corrected for units. Written out, that is CO = VO2 \/ [(CaO2 \u2212 CvO2) \u00d7 10], and the answer arrives in liters per minute. The same relationship sits behind every <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/cardiac-output-formula\/\">cardiac output formula<\/a> used at the bedside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cardiologists, intensivists, and advanced practice clinicians use it during right heart catheterization to quantify perfusion. This guide covers the equation, a worked example, normal ranges, and the errors that quietly distort a result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The worksheet above collects every variable in one place, so the calculation is documented rather than worked out on a scrap of paper.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.pabau.com\/cdn\/attachments\/pulse\/content-engine\/downloadable_template_article\/fick-cardiac-output\/customizable-consent-and-intake-forms.webp\" alt=\"Customizable consent and intake forms\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Pabau&#8217;s customizable intake and consent forms can carry hemoglobin, saturation, and VO2 fields, so the inputs are captured before the case starts.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px;width:800px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-is-the-fick-method\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the Fick method?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Fick method measures blood flow using oxygen as a tracer. The principle states that oxygen taken up each minute equals blood flow multiplied by the arteriovenous oxygen difference. Rearrange that and you have cardiac output.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Cardiac output is the volume the left ventricle pumps per minute, typically 4 to 8 L\/min in a resting adult. When VO2 is measured rather than estimated, Fick is the reference standard in the cath lab, as detailed in <a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK606091\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">StatPearls&#8217; overview of the calculation<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Why clinicians use it:<\/strong> the calculation guides management of cardiogenic shock, heart failure, valvular disease, and congenital shunts. In the US, the right heart catheterization that supplies the blood samples is billed under <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/procedure-codes\/cpt-code-93451\/\">93451<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-the-fick-equation-and-its-variables\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Fick equation and its variables<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The equation itself is short. The units are what catch people out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Variable<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Definition<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Units<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">CO<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Cardiac output<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">L\/min<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">VO2<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Oxygen consumption, measured or estimated<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">mL O2\/min<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">CaO2<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Arterial oxygen content, from an arterial blood gas<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">mL O2\/100 mL blood<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">CvO2<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Mixed venous oxygen content, from the PA catheter<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">mL O2\/100 mL blood<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">A-VO2<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Arteriovenous oxygen difference (CaO2 \u2212 CvO2)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">mL O2\/100 mL blood<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The equation:<\/strong> CO = VO2 \/ [(CaO2 \u2212 CvO2) \u00d7 10]<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That multiplier is not optional. Oxygen content is reported per 100 mL of blood, while VO2 is reported in mL per minute. Multiplying the difference by 10 rescales it to a per-liter basis, so cardiac output lands in L\/min.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Oxygen content comes from hemoglobin, oxygen saturation, and dissolved oxygen. Draw CaO2 from an arterial blood gas sample and CvO2 from the tip of the pulmonary artery catheter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-to-calculate-cardiac-output-step-by-step\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to calculate cardiac output step by step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Five steps take you from blood samples to a cardiac index at the bedside or in the cath lab.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Measure or estimate VO2.<\/strong> A metabolic cart measures it directly. Without one, the LaFarge-Miettinen formula estimates VO2 from age, sex, height, and weight. The common resting shortcut is body surface area multiplied by 125 mL\/min.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draw arterial blood for CaO2.<\/strong> Take a simultaneous arterial blood gas from a radial or femoral artery. Record hemoglobin, arterial oxygen saturation, and arterial PO2.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Draw mixed venous blood for CvO2.<\/strong> Withdraw 1 to 2 mL from the distal port of the pulmonary artery catheter. That sample represents venous blood from the whole systemic circulation. Record hemoglobin, venous saturation, and venous PO2.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Calculate oxygen content for both samples.<\/strong> Use O2 content = (Hgb \u00d7 1.34 \u00d7 SatO2) + (0.003 \u00d7 PO2). The result is in mL O2 per 100 mL of blood.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Apply the Fick equation.<\/strong> Divide VO2 by the arteriovenous difference multiplied by 10. Then divide cardiac output by body surface area for cardiac index, in L\/min\/m\u00b2.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A worked example makes the units concrete. Take an adult with a body surface area of 1.75 m\u00b2 and hemoglobin of 14 g\/dL. Estimated VO2 is 250 mL\/min, SaO2 is 98%, and SvO2 is 75%. The arteriovenous difference works out at 5 mL O2 per 100 mL of blood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">CO = 250 \/ (5 \u00d7 10) = 5.0 L\/min. Cardiac index is 5.0 \/ 1.75 = 2.9 L\/min\/m\u00b2, which sits inside the normal range. Drop the \u00d710 and the same figures read as 50, which is the unit slip worth catching before anyone acts on the number.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-direct-vs-indirect-fick\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Direct vs indirect Fick<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The two variants differ only in where VO2 comes from. Direct Fick needs a metabolic cart or spirometry, equipment that is standard in exercise labs where <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/industry\/sports-medicine-software\/\">sports medicine practices<\/a> measure oxygen uptake during testing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Method<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">VO2 source<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Accuracy<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Clinical use<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Direct Fick<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Measured via metabolic cart or spirometry<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Highest, \u00b15-10% error<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Catheterization in research or academic centers<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Indirect Fick<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Estimated from body surface area and demographics<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Variable, \u00b115-25% error, underestimates in abnormal states<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Bedside assessment when no metabolic cart is available<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>The limitation of indirect Fick:<\/strong> estimation formulas assume a resting metabolic state. Fever, sepsis, hyperthyroidism, and the post-operative period all push oxygen consumption well above baseline. An estimate used in those conditions underestimates cardiac output.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A rising temperature is the easiest warning sign to check, so compare the reading against a <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/underarm-temperature-chart\/\">temperature chart<\/a> before you trust an estimated VO2. Flagging the non-steady state in the note tells the next reader how much weight the number deserves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.pabau.com\/cdn\/attachments\/pulse\/content-engine\/downloadable_template_article\/fick-cardiac-output\/ai-powered-patient-letters.webp\" alt=\"AI powered patient letters\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Pabau&#8217;s automated patient letters pull the calculated output and index from the record, so referral summaries repeat the same figures.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px;width:800px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-fick-vs-thermodilution\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Fick vs thermodilution<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Thermodilution injects cold saline and reads the temperature decay curve. It is faster, which is why it dominates bedside measurement. Fick still wins in two specific situations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Characteristic<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Fick<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Thermodilution<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Accuracy<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">\u00b15-10% direct, \u00b115-25% indirect<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">\u00b110-15%, affected by rhythm and right ventricular function<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Speed<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Slower, needs blood draws and lab processing<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Faster, bedside result in 1-2 minutes<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Equipment<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">PA catheter, blood gas analyzer, optional metabolic cart<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">PA catheter and thermodilution monitor<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Valid in arrhythmias<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Yes, oxygen consumption is independent of rhythm<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">No, the decay curves are distorted<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Septal defect assessment<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Detects shunts through a saturation step-up<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Cannot detect shunts<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Where Fick wins:<\/strong> thermodilution curves distort in atrial fibrillation and the other rhythm disturbances grouped under <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/diagnostic-codes\/icd-10-code-i499\/\">I49.9<\/a>. Oxygen consumption is unaffected by rhythm, so the Fick result holds. Fick also exposes shunts, because a saturation step-up in the right heart shows up in the numbers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-normal-values-for-cardiac-output-and-cardiac-index\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Normal values for cardiac output and cardiac index<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Reference ranges are what give a calculated number its meaning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<table style=\"width:100%;border-collapse:separate;border-spacing:0;border-radius:12px;overflow:hidden;font-size:15px;line-height:1.5;margin:1.5em 0 2em;box-shadow:0 2px 12px rgba(0,0,0,0.08)\">\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Parameter<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Normal range (adults)<\/th>\n<th style=\"background:#121D36;color:#fff;padding:14px 16px;text-align:left;font-weight:600;font-size:14px;letter-spacing:0.3px;border-bottom:2px solid #2BADD4\">Clinical significance<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Cardiac output (CO)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">4-8 L\/min<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Resting blood flow from the left ventricle<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Cardiac index (CI)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">2.5-4.0 L\/min\/m\u00b2<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Output normalized to body size<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Oxygen consumption (VO2)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">200-250 mL\/min at rest<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Rises with fever, pain, and stress<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Arterial saturation (SaO2)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">95-100%<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Reflects pulmonary oxygenation<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Mixed venous saturation (SvO2)<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">60-75%<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Falls when output drops or extraction rises<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"border-bottom:1px solid #E8ECF0;background:#F9FAFB\">\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;font-weight:600;color:#121D36\">Arteriovenous difference<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">3.5-5.5 mL O2\/100 mL blood<\/td>\n<td style=\"padding:12px 16px;color:#374151\">Reflects tissue oxygen extraction<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A cardiac index below 2.2 L\/min\/m\u00b2 points toward cardiogenic shock. A high-output state above 4.2 suggests sepsis, anemia, or hyperthyroidism. An SvO2 under 60% alongside a low index suggests tissue perfusion is falling short.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Low-output states often reach a practice as <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/diagnostic-codes\/icd-10-code-r55\/\">R55<\/a> long before anyone threads a catheter. Logging the paired observations on a <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/vital-signs-record\/\">vital signs record<\/a> makes that trend visible at the next appointment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-where-the-calculation-is-used-clinically\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where the calculation is used clinically<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Clinicians reach for this calculation in six recurring situations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Cardiogenic shock.<\/strong> Separates a low-output presentation, with a cardiac index under 2.2, from a preserved-output one. That distinction drives inotrope and mechanical support decisions.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Decompensated heart failure.<\/strong> Shows whether a reduced ejection fraction comes with genuinely low output or a compensatory hyperdynamic state.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Valvular disease workup.<\/strong> Measures true forward output across a stenotic or regurgitant valve before surgical planning.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Congenital shunt quantification.<\/strong> Compares pulmonary and systemic flow using saturation step-ups to size a left-to-right or right-to-left shunt.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Transplant assessment.<\/strong> Documents resting and stress output for patients being evaluated for heart or lung transplant.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Rapid atrial fibrillation.<\/strong> Supplies a usable number when thermodilution fails because of the rhythm.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-sources-of-error-and-limitations\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Sources of error and limitations<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Several factors distort the result, and most of them are documentation problems as much as clinical ones:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Estimated VO2.<\/strong> Demographic formulas carry 15 to 25% error, and more in fever, sepsis, pain, or post-operative agitation. Always record whether VO2 was measured or estimated.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>A broken steady state.<\/strong> The principle assumes stable oxygen consumption and hemodynamics. Measuring during rapid volume shifts or inotrope titration invalidates the result.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Oxygen content errors.<\/strong> An inaccurate hemoglobin or saturation propagates through the whole calculation. Check blood gas quality when the numbers disagree with the patient in front of you.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Contaminated venous sample.<\/strong> A wedged or kinked catheter returns blood that is not truly mixed venous. Confirm catheter position before you draw.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Intrapulmonary shunting.<\/strong> In pneumonia or acute respiratory distress syndrome, arterial saturation may not reflect systemic oxygenation, which compromises CaO2.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Extreme hemoglobin.<\/strong> Anemia and polycythemia change oxygen carrying capacity, so interpret cardiac index against the actual hemoglobin.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Best practice:<\/strong> document the method, not only the answer. Record the VO2 source, the hemoglobin used, both saturations, and the timing against any intervention. Handing that over in an <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/sbar-report\/\">SBAR report<\/a> lets the next clinician judge the number instead of inheriting it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.pabau.com\/cdn\/attachments\/pulse\/content-engine\/downloadable_template_article\/fick-cardiac-output\/comprehensive-emr-patient-record-management.webp\" alt=\"Comprehensive EMR and patient record management\"\/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"><em>Pabau&#8217;s client records hold every hemodynamic study in one timeline, so cardiac index can be trended across repeat catheterizations.<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div style=\"height:35px;width:800px\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-spacer\"><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-to-use-the-worksheet\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to use the worksheet<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The worksheet at the top of this page follows the same five steps. Enter body surface area, or let the form derive it from height and weight using the DuBois formula.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Then record hemoglobin, the VO2 value and its source, and the four blood gas readings. The form works through oxygen content, applies the arteriovenous difference and the \u00d710 conversion, and returns output and index. Print it or file it with the rest of the patient&#8217;s record.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-pabau-keeps-hemodynamic-data-in-one-record\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">How Pabau keeps hemodynamic data in one record<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In most practices this data ends up in three places. The blood gas printout stays in the lab, the arithmetic sits on paper, and a summary is typed into the record hours later. By then nobody can say whether VO2 was measured or estimated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Practice management software like Pabau keeps all of it in one client record. <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/features\/patient-intake-software\/\">Digital intake forms<\/a> capture hemoglobin, both saturations, and the VO2 source at the point of care. The completed form files itself against the patient, so the figures and the method travel together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From there, every study sits on one timeline. Structured <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/features\/medical-records-management\/\">client records<\/a> let a cardiology team trend cardiac index across repeat catheterizations, rather than hunting through scanned printouts for last year&#8217;s figure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/features\/ai-medical-scribe\/\">Pabau Scribe<\/a>, drafts the procedure note while the numbers are still fresh. Hospital teams and <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/industry\/gp-clinic-software\/\">private practices<\/a> end up with the same auditable record, so nobody retypes a saturation into a second system.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div id=\"book_a_demo\">\n            <div class=\"left-side\">\n                <div class=\"logo\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Logo.svg\"\n                        alt=\"Logo\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                    \/>\n                <\/div>\n\n                <h3 class=\"heading\">\n                    Keep every hemodynamic result in one record                <\/h3>\n\n                <p class=\"description\">\n                    Pabau&#8217;s digital forms and structured client records capture VO2, saturations, and the calculated cardiac index at the point of care. Every study stays with the patient, so trends are easy to review later.                <\/p>\n\n                <div class=\"button-group\">\n                    <a href=\"\/book-demo\/\" class=\"btn btn-scale-effect btn-cta-color btn-md\">\n                        <span class=\"btn-text\">Book a demo<\/span>\n                        <div class=\"btn-icon btn-icon-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n                            <svg\n                                width=\"14\"\n                                height=\"12\"\n                                viewBox=\"0 0 14 12\"\n                                fill=\"none\"\n                                xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\"\n                            >\n                                <path\n                                    d=\"M0.75 4.77295C0.335786 4.77295 0 5.10874 0 5.52295C0 5.93716 0.335786 6.27295 0.75 6.27295V5.52295V4.77295ZM13.2803 6.05328C13.5732 5.76039 13.5732 5.28551 13.2803 4.99262L8.50736 0.219648C8.21447 -0.073245 7.73959 -0.073245 7.4467 0.219648C7.15381 0.512542 7.15381 0.987415 7.4467 1.28031L11.6893 5.52295L7.4467 9.76559C7.15381 10.0585 7.15381 10.5334 7.4467 10.8263C7.73959 11.1191 8.21447 11.1191 8.50736 10.8263L13.2803 6.05328ZM0.75 5.52295V6.27295L12.75 6.27295V5.52295V4.77295L0.75 4.77295V5.52295Z\"\n                                    fill=\"currentColor\"\n                                ><\/path>\n                            <\/svg>\n                        <\/div>\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"right-side\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\"\n                    src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/Home-Page-Concept-4.webp\"\n                    alt=\"Pabau clinic management dashboard\"\n                    loading=\"lazy\"\n                \/>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        \n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The Fick calculation earns its place when thermodilution cannot be trusted. It stays reliable only when the units and the VO2 source are written down with the result.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Decide before the case which VO2 you will use, then record that decision. A measured value and an estimated one carry very different confidence, even when they produce the same figure. Treat the estimate as a range rather than a reading.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Use the worksheet to keep the inputs, the arithmetic, and the date in one place. <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/book-demo\/\">Book a demo<\/a> to see how Pabau files hemodynamic assessments alongside the rest of the patient record.<\/p>\n\n\n        <div id=\"expert_picks\">\n            <div class=\"header\">\n                                    <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/Expert-Picks.svg\" alt=\"Continue your research\" height=\"42\" width=\"42\">\n                                <h3>Continue your research<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"content\">\n                                                            <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Nursing a patient with falling output?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/decreased-cardiac-output-nursing-care-plan-template\/\">Decreased cardiac output care plan<\/a> sets out the interventions and monitoring that follow a low result.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Need the matching pump function figure?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/normal-ejection-fraction-by-age-chart\/\">Normal ejection fraction by age<\/a> gives the reference ranges you read alongside cardiac index.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Assessing risk before surgery?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/rcri-revised-cardiac-risk-index-calculator-guide\/\">Revised cardiac risk index guide<\/a> walks through scoring perioperative cardiac risk step by step.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Spotting deterioration on the ward?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/templates\/abnormal-vital-signs-chart\/\">Abnormal vital signs chart<\/a> lists the thresholds that should trigger escalation before a catheter is considered.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                                                <div class=\"item\">\n                            <div>\n                                <svg width=\"20\" height=\"27\" viewBox=\"0 0 20 27\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                                    <path\n                                        d=\"M18.6223 14.3857C19.1246 13.8975 19.1246 13.1045 18.6223 12.6162L12.1938 6.36621C11.6915 5.87793 10.8759 5.87793 10.3737 6.36621C9.87143 6.85449 9.87143 7.64746 10.3737 8.13574L14.6125 12.2529H2.28571C1.57455 12.2529 1 12.8115 1 13.5029C1 14.1943 1.57455 14.7529 2.28571 14.7529H14.6085L10.3777 18.8701C9.87545 19.3584 9.87545 20.1514 10.3777 20.6396C10.8799 21.1279 11.6955 21.1279 12.1978 20.6396L18.6263 14.3896L18.6223 14.3857Z\"\n                                        fill=\"#54B2D3\" \/>\n                                <\/svg>\n                            <\/div>\n                            <p><strong>Tracking pressures between visits?<\/strong> <a href=\"https:\/\/pabau.com\/blog\/blood-pressure-monitoring\/\">Blood pressure monitoring<\/a> covers how to collect readings that are worth acting on.<\/p>\n                        <\/div>\n                                                <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    \n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-frequently-asked-questions\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently asked questions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1786454188597\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the Fick principle?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">The Fick principle states that the amount of a substance taken up by an organ equals blood flow multiplied by the arteriovenous concentration difference. Applied to the circulation, CO = VO2 \/ [(CaO2 \u2212 CvO2) \u00d7 10]. The \u00d710 converts oxygen content from a per-100-mL basis to a per-liter basis, so the answer is in L\/min.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1786454188598\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">What is the normal cardiac output range?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Normal resting cardiac output in adults is 4 to 8 L\/min. Cardiac index, which normalizes for body size, runs from 2.5 to 4.0 L\/min\/m\u00b2. Values below that range suggest reduced perfusion, and values above it point to a hypermetabolic or compensatory state.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1786454188599\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">When should direct Fick be used instead of indirect?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Use direct Fick, with measured VO2, when a metabolic cart or spirometry is available and the patient is stable at rest. It is the preferred approach in research settings and academic centers, and wherever the highest accuracy matters. Indirect Fick is acceptable at the bedside without a cart, as long as the \u00b115-25% estimation error is acknowledged.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1786454188600\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">How do cardiac output and cardiac index differ?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Cardiac output is the absolute volume the left ventricle pumps each minute, in liters per minute. Cardiac index is that output divided by body surface area, expressed in L\/min\/m\u00b2. Because it accounts for body size, cardiac index is the fairer figure when comparing patients of different ages and weights.<\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1786454188601\"><h3 class=\"schema-faq-question\">Can indirect Fick be used in sepsis or fever?<\/h3> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Estimation formulas assume a resting metabolic state. In sepsis, fever, hyperthyroidism, or the acute post-operative period, actual VO2 sits well above that baseline. An estimate under those conditions understates oxygen consumption, and therefore understates cardiac output. Measure VO2 directly where you can, or use thermodilution instead.<\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Download your free Fick cardiac output worksheet A one-page worksheet for right heart catheterization. Fields cover VO2 and its source, hemoglobin, and both oxygen saturations. Space is laid out for oxygen content, the arteriovenous difference, cardiac output, and cardiac index. Download template Fick cardiac output is oxygen consumption divided by the arteriovenous oxygen difference, corrected [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":83,"featured_media":176020,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_linkdex":"78","_yoast_wpseo_content_score":"90","_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"[\"\",\"\",\"\",\"\",\"\",\"\"]","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw_text_input":"","_seo_original_html":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[4266,4138],"tags":[2202,1382],"class_list":["post-176021","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-clinical-guides","category-templates","tag-cardiac-assessment","tag-template"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.2 (Yoast SEO v28.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Fick cardiac output: Formula, worked example, worksheet<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"The Fick equation divides VO2 by the arteriovenous oxygen difference times 10. 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She enjoys breaking down complex topics into clear, accessible content and has a soft spot for the often-overlooked aspects of clinic life. When she's not writing, she's exploring cafes, walking her dog, or spending time with friends and family.","url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/blog\/author\/anja-dodevska\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188597","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188597","name":"What is the Fick principle?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"The Fick principle states that the amount of a substance taken up by an organ equals blood flow multiplied by the arteriovenous concentration difference. Applied to the circulation, CO = VO2 \/ [(CaO2 \u2212 CvO2) \u00d7 10]. The \u00d710 converts oxygen content from a per-100-mL basis to a per-liter basis, so the answer is in L\/min.","inLanguage":"es"},"inLanguage":"es"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188598","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188598","name":"What is the normal cardiac output range?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Normal resting cardiac output in adults is 4 to 8 L\/min. Cardiac index, which normalizes for body size, runs from 2.5 to 4.0 L\/min\/m\u00b2. Values below that range suggest reduced perfusion, and values above it point to a hypermetabolic or compensatory state.","inLanguage":"es"},"inLanguage":"es"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188599","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188599","name":"When should direct Fick be used instead of indirect?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Use direct Fick, with measured VO2, when a metabolic cart or spirometry is available and the patient is stable at rest. It is the preferred approach in research settings and academic centers, and wherever the highest accuracy matters. Indirect Fick is acceptable at the bedside without a cart, as long as the \u00b115-25% estimation error is acknowledged.","inLanguage":"es"},"inLanguage":"es"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188600","position":4,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188600","name":"How do cardiac output and cardiac index differ?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Cardiac output is the absolute volume the left ventricle pumps each minute, in liters per minute. Cardiac index is that output divided by body surface area, expressed in L\/min\/m\u00b2. Because it accounts for body size, cardiac index is the fairer figure when comparing patients of different ages and weights.","inLanguage":"es"},"inLanguage":"es"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188601","position":5,"url":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/templates\/fick-cardiac-output\/#faq-question-1786454188601","name":"Can indirect Fick be used in sepsis or fever?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Estimation formulas assume a resting metabolic state. In sepsis, fever, hyperthyroidism, or the acute post-operative period, actual VO2 sits well above that baseline. An estimate under those conditions understates oxygen consumption, and therefore understates cardiac output. Measure VO2 directly where you can, or use thermodilution instead.","inLanguage":"es"},"inLanguage":"es"}]}},"yoast":{"focus_keyword":"fick cardiac output","seo_title":"Fick cardiac output: Formula, worked example, worksheet","meta_description":"The Fick equation divides VO2 by the arteriovenous oxygen difference times 10. Worked example, normal ranges, free worksheet.","content_score":"90","is_cornerstone":"","related_keyphrases":[{"keyword":"thermodilution cardiac output","score":61},{"keyword":"normal cardiac output","score":81},{"keyword":"cardiac index formula","score":61},{"keyword":"fick equation","score":72},{"keyword":"direct vs indirect fick","score":61}]},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/176021","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/83"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=176021"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/176021\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":176641,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/176021\/revisions\/176641"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/176020"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=176021"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=176021"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/pabau.com\/es\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=176021"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}