Fluid Repletion in Circulatory Shock

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Abstract
Measurement of central venous pressure is of practical aid in evaluating the patient in shock. The use of a disposable unit, combining a continuous venous pressure monitor and a standard venous infusion set, makes this an accurate, simple, and reliable measurement which may be used routinely in critically ill patients. Venous pressure does not accurately reflect blood volume but indicates the competence of the heart to accept and expel the blood returned to it. As such it is an excellent guide to "safe" volume repletion. A quantitative measure of blood volume is useful in the management of shock, but pulse rate, hemoglobin, and hematocrit values fail as dependable guides for the bedside physician.

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