POCUS examination shows a collapsed IVC. Which intervention is most appropriate for this patient?

• A. Volume replacement
• B. Inotropy
• C. Diuresis
• D. Reduction in CPP

Answer: (A)

A collapsed IVC on ultrasound signals low intravascular volume and reduced venous return to the heart. When preload is low, the heart has less filling, so increasing circulating volume helps restore preload, improve stroke volume, and raise cardiac output. That’s why volume replacement is the most appropriate intervention in this scenario.

Using inotropes would address contractility but not the underlying issue of insufficient preload; it can even worsen the balance if the patient is hypovolemic. Diuresis would remove fluid and further decrease preload, making the situation worse. Reducing cerebral perfusion pressure is not an appropriate targeted treatment here and does not resolve the low preload.