During inspiration, which statement about the IVC is true?

Prepare for the Clinical Sonography III Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question includes hints and explanations. Excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

During inspiration, which statement about the IVC is true?

Explanation:
During inspiration, intrathoracic pressure becomes more negative, increasing venous return to the heart and lowering right atrial pressure. The IVC is a compliant vessel, so as more blood is drawn in and the RA pressure drops, the IVC diameter decreases and it appears to collapse on ultrasound. This inspiratory collapse is the correct description. The other ideas don’t fit the typical dynamic: the IVC does not usually expand with inspiration, its diameter often changes rather than staying the same, and Doppler velocity is not the defining feature of this respirational change.

During inspiration, intrathoracic pressure becomes more negative, increasing venous return to the heart and lowering right atrial pressure. The IVC is a compliant vessel, so as more blood is drawn in and the RA pressure drops, the IVC diameter decreases and it appears to collapse on ultrasound. This inspiratory collapse is the correct description. The other ideas don’t fit the typical dynamic: the IVC does not usually expand with inspiration, its diameter often changes rather than staying the same, and Doppler velocity is not the defining feature of this respirational change.

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