Jugular Venous Distention (JVD)
Visible engorgement of neck veins indicating elevated right atrial pressure
Definition
Jugular Venous Distention (JVD) is the abnormal visibility of the jugular veins. It reflects elevated right atrial pressure and is a key finding in volume overload or right-sided heart failure.
Causes
- Right-sided heart failure
- Cardiac tamponade
- Tension pneumothorax
- Constrictive pericarditis
- Superior vena cava syndrome
- Fluid overload
Assessment
Position patient with HOB at 45°, turn head slightly away, identify the highest point of pulsation of the internal jugular vein. Measure vertical distance above the sternal angle; greater than 3 cm above sternal angle at 45° = elevated.
Nursing Interventions
Treat underlying cause. CHF: diuretics, sodium/fluid restriction, daily weights. Tamponade/tension pneumothorax: emergency interventions (pericardiocentesis, needle decompression).
NCLEX Relevance
JVD + hypotension + muffled heart sounds = Beck's triad of cardiac tamponade.