What does an increase in PCWP (Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure) indicate?

An increase in Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP) indicates that there is increased pressure in the pulmonary circulation, which is often associated with elevated pressures in the left atrium due to left-sided heart failure. When the left ventricle cannot pump efficiently, it leads to a backlog of blood in the lungs, causing the pressure in the pulmonary capillaries to rise. This increase can result in pulmonary congestion and edema, marking a key sign of left-sided heart failure.

In this context, monitoring PCWP is critical for assessing left ventricular function and determining the severity of heart failure. A high PCWP is utilized clinically to guide treatment decisions and manage the patient's fluid status effectively. Therefore, recognizing the relationship between elevated PCWP and left-sided heart failure is essential for nursing practice in heart failure management.