Which EF finding supports left-sided systolic dysfunction?

Which EF finding supports left-sided systolic dysfunction?

• A. EF 38%
• B. EF 65%
• C. EF 50%
• D. EF 75%

Answer: (A)

The key idea is that ejection fraction reflects how well the left ventricle contracts. In systolic dysfunction, the heart’s pumping action is impaired, so a smaller portion of the filled blood is ejected with each beat, leading to a reduced EF. An EF of 38% is clearly below the normal range (roughly 55–70%), indicating poor contractility and left-sided systolic failure. Values like 65% or 75% are within normal limits, showing good contraction, and 50% is lower than normal but not as markedly reduced as 38%, so it’s not as strong evidence of systolic dysfunction.

The key idea is that ejection fraction reflects how well the left ventricle contracts. In systolic dysfunction, the heart’s pumping action is impaired, so a smaller portion of the filled blood is ejected with each beat, leading to a reduced EF. An EF of 38% is clearly below the normal range (roughly 55–70%), indicating poor contractility and left-sided systolic failure. Values like 65% or 75% are within normal limits, showing good contraction, and 50% is lower than normal but not as markedly reduced as 38%, so it’s not as strong evidence of systolic dysfunction.