Certified Respiratory Therapist Practice Exam

Which condition is associated with jugular venous distension?

1. Cor pulmonale

2. Chronic bronchitis

3. Pneumonia

4. Asthma

The correct answer is: Cor pulmonale

Jugular venous distension is commonly associated with conditions that lead to increased central venous pressure. Cor pulmonale, which is right-sided heart failure due to lung disease, can significantly elevate central venous pressure because of the increased strain on the right ventricle as it struggles to pump blood through the lungs. This, in turn, can lead to a backup of blood, manifesting as distension of the jugular veins. In contrast, chronic bronchitis is primarily characterized by airway inflammation and obstruction but does not directly cause jugular venous distension. Pneumonia primarily affects lung parenchyma and may lead to respiratory distress but typically does not result in central venous pressure changes significant enough to cause jugular venous distension. Asthma is an obstructive lung condition that affects airflow but similarly does not cause the elevated pressures necessary for distension of the jugular veins. Thus, cor pulmonale is the condition most closely linked to jugular venous distension.