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Right Atrial Pressure (RAP)

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

Normal mean pressure ranges from 0 to 6 mmHg. The RA waveform is complex, reflecting mechanical events: the a-wave corresponds to active atrial contraction; the c-wave reflects the bulging of the tricuspid valve back into the atrium during isovolumetric ventricular contraction; and the v-wave represents passive atrial filling against a closed tricuspid valve during late systole.

Right atrial pressure tracing showing the a wave of atrial contraction, the c wave of tricuspid bulging in early systole, the v wave of filling against a closed valve, and the x and y descents between them, timed against the QRS.
The a, c and v waves and the x and y descents, timed against the QRS.

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

Related RCIS terms

Left Ventricular End-Diastolic Pressure (LVEDP) Pulmonary Capillary Wedge Pressure (PCWP) Pulmonary Artery Pressure (PAP) 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.