NCLEX RN Exam Prep Related

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What does preload refer to?

  • A. The volume of blood entering the left side of the heart
  • B. The volume of blood entering the right side of the heart
  • C. The pressure in the venous system that the heart must overcome to pump the blood
  • D. The pressure in the arterial system that the heart must overcome to pump the blood
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Preload refers to the volume of blood that enters the right side of the heart. This volume stretches the fibers in the heart before contraction. Preload is an essential factor in determining the force of ventricular contraction. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because preload is specifically related to the volume of blood entering the right side of the heart. Choices C and D are incorrect as they refer to afterload, which is the pressure that the heart must overcome to pump blood out of the ventricles into the systemic or pulmonary circulation.