CVS Practice Test

The normal left atrial pressure typically falls within the range of 4-12 mmHg. This range reflects the pressure in the left atrium during the cardiac cycle, mainly related to the volume of blood it receives from the pulmonary veins and the pressure generated when the left ventricle fills during diastole.

Maintaining normal left atrial pressure is crucial because abnormally high or low pressures can indicate various cardiac conditions. For instance, elevated left atrial pressure is commonly associated with heart failure or mitral valve stenosis, while low pressure may suggest hypovolemia or other issues related to insufficient blood volume.

An understanding of normal values helps healthcare professionals assess and manage patients effectively, particularly in critical care or when monitoring patients with cardiovascular disease. The other options provided reflect pressures outside the normal physiological range for the left atrium.