Heart Failure
Heart Murmurs
Reflex
Tachycardia, Supraventricular
Valsalva Maneuver

Valsalva Maneuver

The Valsalva maneuver involves forceful exhalation against a closed glottis, initially developed to expel fluids and foreign bodies from the middle ear, but has evolved into a critical clinical tool across multiple domains, particularly in cardiology and neurology. The maneuver produces significant hemodynamic changes, primarily increased intrathoracic pressure, reducing preload to the heart. Cardiovascular changes occur during and after this maneuver due to baroreflex and other compensatory reflex mechanisms initiated by decreased preload. Therefore, the Valsalva maneuver can be utilized to assess autonomic function, evaluate heart failure, terminate supraventricular tachycardia, and differentiate cardiac murmurs. This course explores the physiologic effects of this maneuver, the 4 recognized phases, and its interpretation. The Valsalva maneuver also has technique variants extending its clinical applications in diagnostics, surgical procedures, and labor management. This activity for healthcare professionals is designed to enhance the learner’s competence in the optimal performance of the Valsalva maneuver or its variants, its indications and contraindications, diagnostic interpretation, clinical significance, and implementation of an appropriate interprofessional approach when employing this procedure.

Credit & MOC Details

Credit information is provided by the course provider. We recommend confirming credit eligibility with the provider or your licensing board before starting the activity.