What physical exam technique can be used to assess systemic vascular resistance?

The technique that provides insight into systemic vascular resistance is pulse pressure variation. This method examines the differences in arterial pressure during the respiratory cycle, particularly in mechanically ventilated patients. It reflects the hemodynamic response of the cardiovascular system to changes in intrathoracic pressure caused by positive pressure ventilation.

Pulse pressure variation indicates the volume status of a patient and can indirectly assess the vascular tone and systemic vascular resistance based on how well the heart and vascular system are responding to these pressure changes. An increased pulse pressure variation suggests that the patient may be experiencing challenges such as low volume status or changes in vascular resistance that should be addressed.

Other techniques mentioned, while relevant in different contexts, do not directly assess systemic vascular resistance in the same manner. Cardiac output measurement gives information about the heart's pumping ability, venous pressure measurement reflects the return of blood to the heart, and capillary refill time is mainly a quick assessment for peripheral perfusion rather than a direct measurement of vascular resistance.