What effect would compressing the inferior vena cava just below the diaphragm have on cardiac function?
A)Stroke volume would increase.
B)Cardiac output would increase.
C)Sympathetic stimulation of the heart would increase.
D)Heart rate would decrease.
E)None of the answers is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Compressing the inferior vena cava reduces the return of blood to the heart (venous return), which can lead to a decrease in stroke volume and cardiac output. The body compensates for this by increasing sympathetic stimulation of the heart, which can increase heart rate and contractility to maintain cardiac output as much as possible.

What Effect Would Compressing the Inferior Vena Cava Just Below