RCIS Hemodynamics Study Guide
The highest-yield RCIS topic, distilled — normal values, waveforms, shunts, and cardiac output, with practice questions to lock it in.
Normal hemodynamic values to memorise
| Site | Normal value |
|---|---|
| Right atrium (mean) | 2–6 mmHg |
| Right ventricle | 15–30 / 2–8 mmHg |
| Pulmonary artery (mean) | 10–20 mmHg |
| PCWP | 4–12 mmHg |
| Left ventricle | 100–140 / 3–12 mmHg |
| Cardiac output | 4–8 L/min |
Waveform recognition
- a wave — atrial contraction (absent in atrial fibrillation).
- Large v wave — mitral regurgitation.
- Cannon a waves — AV dissociation / complete heart block.
- Square-root sign — constrictive pericarditis.
Cardiac output methods
Fick: CO = O₂ consumption ÷ arteriovenous O₂ difference. Thermodilution: a cold bolus is injected into the RA and a PA thermistor records the temperature curve. Both are commonly tested.
Drill hemodynamics now
Practise hemodynamics questions with instant feedback and explanations.
Practise Hemodynamics →Frequently asked questions
What is the normal PCWP?
4–12 mmHg. It approximates left atrial pressure and reflects left ventricular filling pressure.
What does a large v wave indicate?
Severe mitral regurgitation, because regurgitant flow fills the left atrium during ventricular systole.