Which CVP catheter port is used to connect to the pressure monitoring system?

Which CVP catheter port is used to connect to the pressure monitoring system?

• A. Distal port
• B. Lumen port
• C. Proximal port
• D. Sampling port

Answer: (C)

The pressure monitoring system should be connected to the distal lumen—this is the port located closest to the catheter tip near the heart. That distal lumen provides the true central venous pressure measurement because it is in the venous system right at the central circulation, unreduced by any infusions. The proximal lumen is intended for IV fluid or medication administration, and infusing through it can alter the pressure reading, making it unreliable for continuous monitoring. There is also a sampling port used for drawing blood, which is separate from the pressure transduction line. For accurate readings, the transducer is zeroed at the phlebostatic axis with the patient in a supine position.

The pressure monitoring system should be connected to the distal lumen—this is the port located closest to the catheter tip near the heart. That distal lumen provides the true central venous pressure measurement because it is in the venous system right at the central circulation, unreduced by any infusions. The proximal lumen is intended for IV fluid or medication administration, and infusing through it can alter the pressure reading, making it unreliable for continuous monitoring. There is also a sampling port used for drawing blood, which is separate from the pressure transduction line. For accurate readings, the transducer is zeroed at the phlebostatic axis with the patient in a supine position.