Volume Status Assessment
Multi-parametric assessment using History, Exam, and POCUS.
IVC Assessment
Inferior Vena Cava diameter and collapsibility
Likely Low RA Pressure
Diameter < 2.1 cm
Collapse > 50%
Collapse > 50%
Likely High RA Pressure
Diameter > 2.1 cm
Collapse < 50%
Collapse < 50%
IVC Pitfalls (False Positives/Negatives)
- Ventilated Patients: IVC does NOT collapse with inspiration (it distends). Use variation index instead.
- Intra-abdominal Hypertension: Compresses IVC, mimicking "empty" status.
- Tricuspid Regurgitation: Severe TR can dilate IVC regardless of volume.
- Athlete's Heart: Young athletes may have dilated IVC normally.
Lung Ultrasound (LUS)
B-Lines assessment for extravascular lung water
- A-Lines:Horizontal artifacts. Normal (Dry) lung.
- B-Lines:Vertical "comet-tail" artifacts. Indicates pulmonary edema (if bilateral).
- Plural:Check for pleural effusions at bases (Spine Sign).
Recommended Resources
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