Which of the following lists the symptoms of diminished cardiac output?

• A. Anxiety, chest pain, shortness of breath, diaphoresis, hypotension, cool clammy skin, cyanosis, decreased consciousness
• B. Fever, rash, sweating, headaches
• C. Palpitations only
• D. No symptoms

Answer: (A)

When cardiac output falls, tissues aren’t getting enough blood flow, so the body shows signs of poor perfusion and sympathetic activation. That mix shows up as anxiety or restlessness, chest discomfort from possible myocardial ischemia or stress, and shortness of breath as the body struggles to meet oxygen needs. Sweatiness (diaphoresis) and a drop in blood pressure reflect the body’s attempt to preserve flow to vital organs, while cool, clammy skin results from peripheral vasoconstriction. Cyanosis indicates inadequate oxygen delivery, and a reduced level of consciousness signals cerebral hypoperfusion. Together, these symptoms form a pattern that points to diminished cardiac output.

Fever, rash, sweating with some headaches, or other non-perfusion features don’t fit this picture of systemic underperfusion. Palpitations can occur with many cardiac conditions but by themselves don’t define diminished cardiac output, and no symptoms would not align with the perfusion compromise described above.