2. The indicator-dilution method is a way to measure the flow rate of blood in t

Question

2. The indicator-dilution method is a way to measure the flow rate of blood in the body. Dye is injected into the pulmonary artery (leaving the heart) and the concentration of the dye is monitored in the radial artery (in the forearm) Blood Q2 Blood Dye 80 mg/L Dyc 20 mg 20 mg of dye is injected into the pulmonary artery of the patient, and a concentration of 80 mg/Lis measured at the radial artery 3 seconds later. Determine the rate of blood flow (Q) in the circulatory system of the patient. Assume that the dye mixes in the bloodstream instantly (so that the concentration is uniform throughout), all of the dye stays in the circulatory system, and that the dye reaches the radial artery in 3 seconds. State any other assumptions you make in your calculation.

Explanation / Answer

The problem is quite simple.

As dye is mixing with and dissolving in the blood instantly, we can apply simple logic.

Input dye = 20 mg.

Output concentration = 80 mg/L

Input is pure blood.

Concentration = (mass of solute/ volume of blood)

80 = 20/Q

Q= 20/80 = 1/4 = 0.25 liters

blood flow is 0.25 liters or 400 ml/unit time.

Related Questions

Navigate

• Browse (All)
• Browse 2
• Subjects

---

---

Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.