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jugular venous pulsation (JVP)

Pulse observed in the external jugular vein normally falls during inspiration. Normal jugular waves: a: atrial contraction c: closure of tricuspid valve v: ventricular filling x descent following the c wave y descent following the v wave. Features which help distinguish jugular venous pulsation from carotid pulsations: 1) rarely palpable 2) two elevations & two trough per heart beat 3) pulsations eliminated by light pressure on the vein(s) just above the sternal end of the clavicle 4) level of pulsation changes with position, dropping as the patient becomes more upright 5) level of pulsation generally descends with inspiration

Related

jugular vein jugular venous distension (JVD) jugular venous pressure

Specific

JVP a-wave JVP v-wave JVP x-descent JVP y-descent Lancisi sign

General

pulse (pulsation) abnormal finding (problem)

References

  1. Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine, 13th ed. Companion Handbook, Isselbacher et al (eds), McGraw-Hill Inc. NY, 1995, pg 326
  2. Guide to Physical Examination & History Taking, 6th edition, Bates B, JB Lippincott, Philadelphia, 1995, pg 282