Which value range best represents normal central venous pressure?

Which value range best represents normal central venous pressure?

• A. 2 to 6 mmHg
• B. 6 to 12 mmHg
• C. 0 to 4 mmHg
• D. 8 to 12 mmHg

Answer: (A)

Central venous pressure reflects the right atrial preload, so the normal range represents typical filling pressure of the heart at rest. In a healthy person, it sits around 2 to 6 mmHg. This window indicates balanced venous return and cardiac filling; values higher than 6 mmHg suggest increased preload or impaired right-heart function (fluid overload, certain heart or thoracic conditions), while values lower than about 2 mmHg point to reduced venous return (hypovolemia, dehydration). Accurate measurement is obtained with a central venous catheter and zeroing at the level of the right atrium to reflect true RA pressure.

Central venous pressure reflects the right atrial preload, so the normal range represents typical filling pressure of the heart at rest. In a healthy person, it sits around 2 to 6 mmHg. This window indicates balanced venous return and cardiac filling; values higher than 6 mmHg suggest increased preload or impaired right-heart function (fluid overload, certain heart or thoracic conditions), while values lower than about 2 mmHg point to reduced venous return (hypovolemia, dehydration). Accurate measurement is obtained with a central venous catheter and zeroing at the level of the right atrium to reflect true RA pressure.