Introduction: Examination of Neck Veins

Observation of both jugular veins can provide a reliable indication of the volume and pressure in the right side of the heart since internal jugular veins pulsate in response to phasic changes in right atrial pressure. Proper positioning of the patient to increase the effects of gravity enhances distention of the jugular veins and, therefore, increases the ability to observe venous pulsations.

Two techniques of neck vein evaluation are covered in this module: jugular venous pressure and jugular waveform analysis.

In examination of the jugular veins, the primary technique is measurement of jugular venous pressure (JVD). This tells us the level of the central venous pressure (CVP). An increase in CVP is often termed jugular vein distension (JVD).

back to top