Techniques: Jugular Venous Pressure Measurement (JVP)

The technique for examination for CVP (central venous pressure) Patient reclining with head elevated 45 Measure elevation of neck veins above the sternal angle (Lewis Method).

Add 5 cm to measurement since right atrium is 5 cm below the sternal angle.

Normal CVP <= 8 cm H2O

Light should be tangential to illuminate highlights and shadows. Neck should not be sharply flexed.

Using a centimeter ruler, measure the vertical distance between the angle of Louis (manubrio sternal joint) and the highest level of jugular vein pulsation. A straight edge intersecting the ruler at a right angle may be helpful.

If the internal jugular vein is not detectable, use the external jugular vein. The internal jugular vein is the preferred site.