Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Test 2026 - Free CEN Practice Questions and Study Guide

Measuring preload in the right ventricle is important for assessing a patient's hemodynamic status, particularly in emergency and critical care settings. Central venous pressure (CVP) is a common method used to estimate right ventricular preload. It reflects the pressure in the right atrium, providing insight into the volume status of the patient. Since the CVP is influenced by the returning blood volume to the heart, it can serve as an indirect indicator of the right ventricle's preload.

Jugular venous distention can also give an impression of fluid status and right atrial pressure, but it is more of a clinical sign rather than a direct measurement of preload. Pulmonary wedge pressure is utilized to assess left ventricular preload and may not provide accurate information on the right ventricle. Cardiac output assessment gives insights into the overall performance of the heart but does not specifically target the preload measurement for the right ventricle. Therefore, central venous pressure is recognized as the more suitable and direct method for evaluating right ventricular preload.