Which test is routinely performed to assess cardiac function in Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)?

A chest X-ray is routinely performed to assess cardiac function in Congestive Heart Failure (CHF) because it provides visual information about the heart size, shape, and any potential fluid accumulation in the lungs. In cases of CHF, a chest X-ray can reveal signs of heart enlargement, pulmonary congestion, or pleural effusions, which are common complications associated with heart failure.

While other tests such as right heart catheterization can provide detailed hemodynamic information, they are more invasive and typically not used as a routine initial assessment. CTPA (Computed Tomography Pulmonary Angiography) is generally used to evaluate pulmonary embolism rather than cardiac function, and blood cultures are primarily used to identify infections, not to assess cardiac conditions. Therefore, a chest X-ray serves as a non-invasive, accessible, and effective first step in evaluating the cardiac status of a patient with CHF.