Question

Blood pressure is one of the major variables doctors monitor in their patients. Using the information you have obtained in this activity, construct an explanation for how doctors can measure only blood pressure but still take into account factors such as viscosity, blood volume, and resistance. Your explanation should include a description of how these other factors are related to blood pressure.

Answer 1

If blood viscosity increases, then the total peripheral resistance will increase, thereby reducing blood flow. Consequently, if viscosity decreases, then blood flow and perfusion will increase. An increase in blood volume increases central venous pressure. This increases right atrial pressure, right ventricular end-diastolic pressure and volume.