Cardiac index (CI) is defined within which normal range?

Cardiac index (CI) is a crucial parameter used in critical care to assess the cardiac output relative to a patient's body surface area, allowing for a more personalized understanding of the heart's performance. The normal range for cardiac index is typically between 2.5 to 4.0 liters per minute per square meter of body surface area. However, when considering clinical practice and the general reference ranges, 2.5 to 5 liters per minute per square meter is accepted as the normal range.

This range reflects adequate cardiac output in a healthy individual and indicates that the heart is effectively supplying oxygen-rich blood to the body's tissues. Recognizing this range helps healthcare providers determine if a patient's cardiac function is compromised and guides decisions regarding interventions.

When assessing a patient, values below this range could suggest inadequate perfusion and potential heart failure, while values exceeding this range could indicate conditions such as sepsis or hyperdynamic states. Thus, understanding and accurately interpreting the cardiac index is vital for effective patient management in critical care settings.