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Low cardiac output syndrome — FRCA Primary MCQ

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HardPharmacologyLow cardiac output syndromeFRCA Primary

After cardiac surgery, a patient has low cardiac output and high filling pressures with acceptable systemic vascular resistance. Which drug is most appropriate?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: D — Dobutamine

Dobutamine provides beta-1 mediated inotropy and can improve cardiac output. Suxamethonium is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Furosemide is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Nitrous oxide is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. Atropine is less appropriate because it would fit a different clinical clue or a separate anaesthetic problem. In Primary FRCA pharmacology, link the clinical effect to the receptor, distribution or elimination mechanism rather than memorising isolated facts.

Reference: Peck, Hill & Williams Pharmacology for Anaesthesia and Intensive Care; BNF; Primary FRCA textbooks