What is the term for a condition where the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to the organs?

Prepare for the Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) National Credential Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question provides hints and explanations. Get ready to excel on your exam!

The term "cardiac failure" refers to a condition in which the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body's needs. This can result from various underlying issues, including previous heart attacks, high blood pressure, or diseases that affect the heart muscle. Cardiac failure does not necessarily mean that the heart has stopped working; rather, it indicates that it is not functioning effectively, leading to inadequate blood flow to vital organs.

In contrast, options like "heart attack" refer specifically to the sudden blockage of blood flow to the heart muscle, which can cause damage to the heart but is not a chronic condition like cardiac failure. "Heart disease" is a broader term encompassing various heart-related health issues, but it does not specifically describe the failure of the heart to pump blood. "Arrhythmia" refers to irregular heartbeats, which can affect the heart's efficiency but does not directly define a state of insufficient pumping ability. Hence, "cardiac failure" is the most accurate description when citing a condition where the heart cannot pump adequate blood.

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