Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

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Study for the EMT Intermediate Exam. Access detailed flashcards and multiple-choice questions that come with hints and explanations. Prepare comprehensively for your EMT certification!

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How is ejection fraction defined with regard to the heart?

Amount of blood returning to the heart
Volume of blood ejected with each heartbeat
Percentage of blood ejected from the heart
Rate of heart contractions

The correct answer is: Percentage of blood ejected from the heart

Ejection fraction is defined as the percentage of blood that is ejected from the heart during each contraction, specifically from the left ventricle. It's a critical measurement used to assess the heart's pumping efficiency and overall function. When the heart beats, it fills with blood and then contracts to pump that blood out into the circulation. The ejection fraction provides insight into how effectively the heart can supply blood to the body, which is vital in diagnosing and monitoring various cardiovascular conditions. In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of heart function. The amount of blood returning to the heart pertains to venous return, which is significant but not a measure of how much blood is being pumped out. The volume of blood ejected with each heartbeat might imply a specific absolute volume instead of a percentage. The rate of heart contractions reflects the heart's rhythm but does not quantify the efficiency of the heart's output. Thus, the percentage represents how well the heart is functioning as a pump, making it the most relevant definition in this context.