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

The normal range for central venous pressure (CVP) in adults is considered to be between 2 and 6 mm Hg. CVP measures the pressure within the thoracic vena cava near the right atrium and is a useful indicator of a patient's fluid status and cardiac function.

A CVP within this range suggests that the heart is receiving an adequate volume of blood returning from the systemic circulation and that the heart can effectively manage this volume. This measurement can help healthcare providers assess conditions such as heart failure, fluid volume overload, or dehydration.

Understanding the normal values of CVP is essential for clinicians in order to evaluate and manage patient conditions accurately, especially in critical care settings. Values outside the normal range can indicate potential complications or the need for intervention, making it vital to know the expected parameters.