Professional
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
central venous pressure
Pressure measurement in the central venous system used to assess intravascular volume status and cardiac preload.
Full Definition
Central venous pressure (CVP) is measured via a central venous catheter placed in the superior or inferior vena cava, typically ranging from 2-8 mmHg in healthy individuals. In surgical critical care, CVP monitoring helps guide fluid management and assess cardiac function, though its reliability as a sole indicator of volume status is debated. Elevated CVP may indicate volume overload, right heart failure, or cardiac tamponade, while low CVP suggests hypovolemia.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as CVP; interpret in conjunction with other hemodynamic parameters rather than in isolation.
In Context
- "Central venous pressure remains elevated at 18 mmHg despite diuresis." — ICU assessment
- "Trending CVP values rather than absolute numbers provides better clinical guidance." — Medical education material
Also known as
CVP
Don't confuse with
pulmonary capillary wedge pressure
mean arterial pressure