When considering treatment options for a patient with systolic heart failure, what is the goal of using a positive inotrope?

The goal of using a positive inotrope in the treatment of systolic heart failure is to improve heart contractility. Positive inotropes are agents that increase the force of contraction of the heart muscle, which can be particularly beneficial in cases of systolic heart failure where the heart's ability to pump blood effectively is compromised. By enhancing contractility, these medications help to increase cardiac output, improve perfusion to vital organs, and alleviate symptoms associated with heart failure, such as fatigue and shortness of breath.

Improved contractility from positive inotropic agents can lead to enhanced stroke volume and, subsequently, better oxygen delivery to tissues. This therapeutic approach is particularly indicated in acute decompensated heart failure or in chronic settings where patients are experiencing debilitating symptoms. Thus, the primary effect of positive inotropes directly aligns with their intended use in boosting the performance of the heart, hence making 'improve heart contractility' the correct choice.