What is normal Central venous pressure?

• A. 2 to 6 mmHg
• B. 8 to 12 mmHg
• C. 12 to 18 mmHg
• D. 0 to 2 mmHg

Answer: (A)

Central venous pressure measures the right atrial pressure and the preload of the right heart. A normal value is about 2 to 6 mmHg, which indicates adequate venous return without congestion. Values below this range suggest hypovolemia or dehydration, while higher values point to fluid overload, right-sided heart failure, increased venous tone, or elevated intrathoracic pressure (for example, with positive-pressure ventilation). When assessing CVP, remember that body position and measurement conditions (end expiration, transducer at the level of the right atrium) can affect the reading.