What is the typical range for Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP) in mmHg?

The typical range for Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP) is 4-18 mmHg. This measurement is essential in assessing the left atrial pressure and can provide insights into fluid status and cardiac function in critically ill patients. A PCWP value within this range suggests normal left atrial pressure, while values outside this range can indicate various cardiac conditions such as heart failure.

The other options do not accurately reflect the established clinical norms. A range of 2-14 mmHg is considered too low, as it excludes values that may be clinically relevant in specific healthcare scenarios. Similarly, the ranges of 8-20 mmHg and 1-10 mmHg also deviate from the typical clinical thresholds and could lead to misinterpretations of a patient’s hemodynamic status. Understanding the normal range for PCWP is vital for effective patient management, particularly in acute care settings.