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Discrimination of the JVP from the carotid pulse

Authoring team

The JVP can be discriminated from the carotid pulse because:

  • it cannot be palpated

  • it has a complex wave form; it is usually seen to flicker twice within each cardiac cycle

  • it moves on respiration, normally decreasing on inspiration and rising on expiration; for exceptions, see Kussmaul's sign

  • mild pressure applied to the base of the neck overlying the proximal part of the internal jugular vein will break the column of blood in it, and obliterate its pulsations

  • mild pressure applied over the liver will expel more blood into the right side of the heart and elevate the JVP, a positive hepato-jugular reflex

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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