In the context of right ventricular failure, what central venous pressure (CVP) reading is expected?

In right ventricular failure, the expected central venous pressure (CVP) reading is elevated due to increased pressure in the right atrium and venous system as the heart struggles to effectively pump blood forward. A CVP reading of around 14 cm H2O indicates a significant increase in venous pressure, which is consistent with the pathophysiology of right ventricular failure.

In this condition, the heart's inability to pump adequately leads to congestion of the venous system. As a result, the pressure within the veins that return blood to the heart—measured by CVP—rises. An elevated CVP reflects volume overload and can be observed in various conditions, including right ventricular failure, heart failure, and other states leading to venous congestion. Therefore, a CVP of 14 cm H2O is indicative of the excessive pressure within that venous system, aligning with the clinical picture of right ventricular failure.

Lower readings, such as those in the other options, would not typically be associated with this condition, as they indicate normal or low venous pressure, which would not support the diagnosis of right ventricular failure.