What is the approximate loss of ventricular filling as a result of acute atrial fibrillation?

What is the approximate loss of ventricular filling as a result of acute atrial fibrillation?

• A. 10-15%
• B. 25-35%
• C. 15-25%
• D. 30-40%

Answer: (C)

In acute atrial fibrillation, the loss of effective atrial contraction significantly impacts ventricular filling. The atria's rhythm becomes irregular and chaotic, which leads to a reduced ability to push blood into the ventricles effectively during diastole. The approximate loss of ventricular filling is around 15-25%. This figure accounts for the absence of organized contraction in the atria, which normally aids in filling the ventricles more efficiently. In the context of this question, the range of 15-25% accurately reflects the physiological changes occurring during acute atrial fibrillation. Understanding this percentage is crucial for grasping how atrial function directly correlates with ventricular performance, particularly in a clinical setting where management of atrial fibrillation is often necessary to maintain optimal cardiac output.

In acute atrial fibrillation, the loss of effective atrial contraction significantly impacts ventricular filling. The atria's rhythm becomes irregular and chaotic, which leads to a reduced ability to push blood into the ventricles effectively during diastole. The approximate loss of ventricular filling is around 15-25%. This figure accounts for the absence of organized contraction in the atria, which normally aids in filling the ventricles more efficiently.

In the context of this question, the range of 15-25% accurately reflects the physiological changes occurring during acute atrial fibrillation. Understanding this percentage is crucial for grasping how atrial function directly correlates with ventricular performance, particularly in a clinical setting where management of atrial fibrillation is often necessary to maintain optimal cardiac output.