Adult Echocardiography Practice Exam

A pericardial effusion occurs when excess fluid accumulates in the pericardial cavity surrounding the heart. This situation can significantly impact cardiac function primarily by restricting the diastolic filling of the heart chambers. As the pericardial space fills with fluid, the pressure within that space increases, which can lead to a condition known as cardiac tamponade if the accumulation is substantial. This increased pressure on the heart restricts its ability to expand fully, especially during diastole when the heart refills with blood. As a result, the volume of blood that can enter the heart is compromised, leading to decreased preload and ultimately reduced cardiac output.

In contrast, the other choices describe effects that do not accurately represent the physiological impact of a pericardial effusion. Increased stroke volume is unlikely in the setting of an effusion, as the heart is not able to fill adequately. Enhanced cardiac contractility may occur under different circumstances but is not a consequence of fluid accumulation in the pericardial space. Finally, while arrhythmias can occur in various cardiac conditions, they are not a direct effect of a pericardial effusion itself. Thus, option B precisely captures the impact of a pericardial eff