What changes are expected with left ventricular dysfunction/failure?

Left ventricular dysfunction or failure significantly impacts the circulatory system, primarily leading to elevated pressures in the pulmonary circulation and reduced cardiac output. When the left ventricle fails to pump effectively, blood backs up into the lungs, resulting in increased pulmonary artery wedge pressure. This reflects pulmonary congestion due to fluid accumulation.

Simultaneously, the left ventricle's inability to pump effectively leads to a decrease in cardiac output (CO). As the heart's ability to circulate blood diminishes, the systemic body's oxygen and nutrient supply also decreases, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath in patients.

Other options outline scenarios that do not correctly represent the physiological changes seen in left ventricular dysfunction. For example, increased systemic blood pressure is typically not associated with left ventricular failure, as the body often compensates for low output by attempting to elevate pressure but often fails to do so effectively in the presence of true heart failure. Understanding these physiological responses is key in managing patients with left ventricular dysfunction or failure.