An echocardiogram is used to evaluate which aspects of the heart?

• A. Heart rhythm only
• B. Electrical activity only
• C. Heart structure, pumping function, valves, and blood flow
• D. Lung volumes

Answer: (C)

An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to visualize the heart in real time, letting you see the size and shape of the chambers, how the walls move, and the structure of the valves. It also uses Doppler to track blood flow through the heart, which lets you assess pumping function (like how well the heart ejects blood) and detect abnormal flow caused by valve disease or other problems. Because of this combination, it provides information on heart structure, pumping function, valves, and blood flow.

Electrical activity and heart rhythm are assessed with an electrocardiogram, not an echocardiogram. Lung volumes are measured by pulmonary function tests or chest imaging, not echo.