Fick Cardiac Output Derivation

Calculate cardiac output using the Fick principle: CO = VO2 divided by (CaO2 minus CvO2) multiplied by 10. Where VO2 = oxygen consumption in mL/min, CaO2 = arterial O2 content, CvO2 = mixed venous O2 content. O2 content = Hgb x 1.34 x SaO2 + (0.0031 x PaO2). Assumed VO2 of 125 mL/min/m2 is used when direct measurement is unavailable.

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Clinical Guidance

BMI is a screening measure of body size, not a direct measure of body fat. The standard WHO categories are underweight (<18.5), normal (18.5–24.9), overweight (25–29.9), and obese (≥30).

BMI can overestimate body fat in athletes with high muscle mass and underestimate it in older adults with low muscle mass. Interpret it alongside waist circumference and clinical context rather than as a standalone diagnosis.

⚕ Clinical Disclaimer: These calculators are for educational and reference purposes only. Always verify results with qualified clinical judgment and current clinical guidelines. Do not use as a sole basis for medical decisions.
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How It Works

Calculate cardiac output using the Fick principle: CO = VO2 divided by (CaO2 minus CvO2) multiplied by 10. Where VO2 = oxygen consumption in mL/min, CaO2 = arterial O2 content, CvO2 = mixed venous O2 content. O2 content = Hgb x 1.34 x SaO2 + (0.0031 x PaO2). Assumed VO2 of 125 mL/min/m2 is used when direct measurement is unavailable

Each component has a specific meaning:

  • Fick principle: CO = VO2 divided by multiplied by 10 — The fick principle: co = vo2 divided by multiplied by 10 recorded for the scenario being assessed.

Note: Interpret the fick cardiac output result against the thresholds and context described above.

How to Use

Enter the Fick principle: CO = VO2 divided by multiplied by 10 for the scenario you are assessing. Calculate cardiac output using the Fick principle: CO = VO2 divided by (CaO2 minus CvO2) multiplied by 10. Where VO2 = oxygen consumption in mL/min, CaO2 = arterial O2 content, CvO2 = mixed venous O2 content. O2 content = Hgb x 1.34 x SaO2 + (0.0031 x PaO2). Assumed VO2 of 125 mL/min/m2 is used when direct measurement is unavailable. Use the fick cardiac output result to inform your calculation.

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Frequently Asked Questions