The full form of CVP is Central Venous Pressure.

Central venous pressure is considered a direct measurement of the blood pressure in the right atrium and vena cava. It is acquired by threading a central venous catheter (subclavian double lumen central line shown) into any of several large veins. It is threaded so that the tip of the catheter rests in the lower third of the superior vena cava. The pressure monitoring assembly is attached to the distal port of a multilumen central vein catheter.

• Adhere to institutional Policy and Procedure.
• Obtain history and assess the patient.
• Explain the procedure to the patient, include:
  • local anesthetic
  • trendelenberg positioning
  • draping
  • limit movement
  • need to maintain sterile field.
  • post procedure chest X-ray
• Obtain a sterile, flushed and pressurized transducer assembly
• Obtain the catheter size, style and length ordered.
• Obtain supplies:
  • Masks
  • Sterile gloves
  • Line insertion kit
  • Heparin flush per policy
• Position patient supine on bed capable of trendelenberg position
• Prepare for post procedure chest X-ray

he CVP catheter is an important tool used to assess right ventricular function and systemic fluid status.

• Normal CVP is 2-6 mm Hg.
• CVP is elevated by :
  • overhydration which increases venous return
  • heart failure or PA stenosis which limit venous outflow and lead to venous congestion
  • positive pressure breathing, straining,
• CVP decreases with:
  • hypovolemic shock from hemorrhage, fluid shift, dehydration
  • negative pressure breathing which occurs when the patient demonstrates retractions or mechanical negative pressure which is sometimes used for high spinal cord injuries.

The CVP catheter is also an important treatment tool which allows for:

• Rapid infusion
• Infusion of hypertonic solutions and medications that could damage veins
• Serial venous blood assessment