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Pulmonary Artery Pressure (PAP)

A Diagnostic Catheterization & Hemodynamics term on the RCIS exam blueprint, defined for cath lab and EP clinicians.

Upon entering the pulmonary trunk, the systolic pressure remains equivalent to RV systole (15 to 25 mmHg). However, the sudden closure of the pulmonic valve generates a characteristic dicrotic notch, preventing the diastolic pressure from dropping to zero (normal diastolic range 8 to 15 mmHg, mean PAP 10 to 20 mmHg).

Pulmonary artery pressure tracing with a systolic peak matching right ventricular systole, a dicrotic notch marking pulmonic valve closure, and a diastolic pressure that never falls to zero.
The dicrotic notch and the non-zero diastolic pressure that distinguish PA from RV.

Domain: Diagnostic Catheterization & Hemodynamics · Blueprint: RCIS exam guide

Related RCIS terms

Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Pressure (LVEDP) Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP) Right Atrial Pressure (RAP) Right Ventricular Pressure (RVP) Tricuspid Regurgitation (TR)

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Written and reviewed by John-Philip (JP) Maarschalk, BSN, RN, CNML — a nurse manager who runs operations for the cardiac cath lab, electrophysiology, and interventional service lines at an academic health system in North Carolina. He hires and develops the staff who sit for these exams. More about JP and how this content is made →
Cardiac Codex is an independent study tool published by MdoubleA LLC, not affiliated with or endorsed by CCI or any certifying body. This glossary entry is exam-preparation information, not medical advice or a substitute for clinical judgment. Always verify current clinical practice against primary sources and institutional protocol.