What is the normal range for central venous pressure (CVP)?

What is the normal range for central venous pressure (CVP)?

• A. 1-3 mm Hg
• B. 3-5 mm Hg
• C. 6-8 mm Hg
• D. 10-12 mm Hg

Answer: (B)

Central venous pressure measures the pressure in the right atrium and reflects preload of the right heart. It’s read from a central venous line with the transducer leveled to the phlebostatic axis and zeroed at end expiration. The normal range is about 2–6 mmHg, with 3–5 mmHg being a typical midrange that many exams use as the normal window. So the option 3–5 mmHg best fits the normal range. If CVP falls below this range, it suggests low preload or hypovolemia; if it’s above this range, it points to increased preload or right-sided dysfunction such as volume overload, right heart failure, or tamponade. Remember that factors like positive-pressure ventilation and high PEEP can raise CVP, so interpret readings in the clinical context.

Central venous pressure measures the pressure in the right atrium and reflects preload of the right heart. It’s read from a central venous line with the transducer leveled to the phlebostatic axis and zeroed at end expiration. The normal range is about 2–6 mmHg, with 3–5 mmHg being a typical midrange that many exams use as the normal window. So the option 3–5 mmHg best fits the normal range.

If CVP falls below this range, it suggests low preload or hypovolemia; if it’s above this range, it points to increased preload or right-sided dysfunction such as volume overload, right heart failure, or tamponade. Remember that factors like positive-pressure ventilation and high PEEP can raise CVP, so interpret readings in the clinical context.