CCRN Hemodynamic Monitoring 2

Question 1

A patient's pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) is 4 mmHg with a CVP of 2 mmHg and tachycardia. What does this most likely indicate?

Accepted Answer

Hypovolemia

Answer

Low PCWP and low CVP with compensatory tachycardia indicate reduced preload from hypovolemia.

Question 2

Which waveform component on a central venous pressure (CVP) tracing corresponds to atrial contraction?

Accepted Answer

a wave

Answer

The a wave reflects atrial contraction at end-diastole.

Question 3

To obtain accurate hemodynamic readings, where should the air-fluid interface (transducer) be leveled?

Accepted Answer

Phlebostatic axis

Answer

The phlebostatic axis, at the 4th intercostal space midaxillary line, approximates the level of the atria.

Question 4

A large v wave on the PCWP tracing is most characteristic of which condition?

Accepted Answer

Acute mitral regurgitation

Answer

Regurgitant flow into the left atrium during systole produces a prominent v wave.

Question 5

Normal mixed venous oxygen saturation (SvO2) measured from the distal port of a PA catheter is approximately:

Accepted Answer

60-80%

Answer

Normal SvO2 is 60-80%, reflecting balance between oxygen delivery and consumption.

CCRN Review Practice Test