Central Venous Pressure Monitoring: Clinical Practice Guide for Nurses

Abstract

Central venous pressure is used for monitoring intravascular volume and heart function, and the administration of intravenous fluid. Central venous pressure monitoring is commonly used in critically ill patients such as multiple trauma, sepsis, major surgery, and heart dysfunction. Critically ill patients are at high risk of hemodynamic changes, leading to inadequate tissue perfusion. Central venous pressure monitoring is therefore significant for guiding healthcare providers to tailor effective management for critically ill patients. However, patients with central venous catheterization are at high risk of complications, including infection, thrombosis, and venous air emboli. Nurses play an important role in caring for patients with central venous catheterization. They are responsible for central venous pressure measuring and interpreting, and also detecting or preventing complications related-to the catheterization. Therefore, knowledge and practice in caring for patients with central venous catheterization are essential for nurses in order to provide an optimal care; collecting accurate data, ensuring correct interpretation, and preventing complications.