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Cardiovascular 13

A 45-year-old man presents to the emergency department for evaluation of a “fluttering heart,” dizziness, and shortness of breath, which have been constant since yesterday evening. Past medical history is significant for atrial fibrillation and hypertension. Of note, the patient typically takes daily metoprolol, but he was unable to afford his most recent prescription refill. Physical examination is significant for a blood pressure of 90/50 mm Hg, heart rate 122 beats/minute, and an irregularly irregular heartbeat. A normal jugular venous pressure (JVP) tracing is pictured below.

Which of the following changes to the jugular venous pressure (JVP) tracing is most expected in this patient?

  • A) Attenuated A wave and X descent
  • B) Attenuated X descent with prominent V wave
  • C) Attenuated Y descent only
  • D) Prominent A wave only
  • E) Prominent A wave with attenuated Y descent

Author(s)

Alexandra Conway

Editor(s)

Dr. Ted O'Connell

Last updated

Oct 24, 2023

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