A patient with cardiomyopathy is likely to exhibit which of these pharmacological goals?

In the context of managing a patient with cardiomyopathy, improving contractility is a primary pharmacological goal. Cardiomyopathy often leads to decreased heart function and an impaired ability for the heart to pump blood effectively. Enhancing contractility helps the heart muscle pump more forcefully, which can improve overall cardiac output and alleviate symptoms of heart failure.

Medications that aim to improve contractility, such as positive inotropes, can be particularly beneficial in managing patients with certain types of cardiomyopathy, as they can enhance the strength of each heartbeat and improve the patient's ability to maintain adequate blood circulation.

While reducing heart rate and preventing arrhythmias are also important in the management of cardiac conditions, the direct goal related to contractility for a patient with cardiomyopathy is to enhance the heart’s pumping ability. Increasing afterload, on the other hand, is not typically a goal in managing cardiomyopathy as it can further strain the heart.