What is the primary function of an artificial heart?

The primary function of an artificial heart is to replace the natural heart's function. An artificial heart is designed to take over the responsibilities of a failing or damaged heart, ensuring that blood is pumped throughout the body effectively. This is crucial for maintaining proper circulation and delivering oxygen and nutrients to vital organs and tissues.

While options like increasing heart rate, assisting in respiration, and supporting blood pressure may be related to overall cardiovascular function, they do not capture the main purpose of an artificial heart. The primary aim of this device is to fulfill the essential role of pumping blood, thus serving as a life-saving measure for patients with severe heart conditions, such as end-stage heart failure, when a natural heart can no longer perform adequately.