Final answer:
Jugular vein distention can be determined by visual inspection or using the Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) measurement. It is a sign of increased pressure in the veins and can indicate underlying health conditions. Evaluation by a healthcare professional is necessary for diagnosis and management.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jugular vein distention can be determined by visual inspection of the jugular veins in the neck. When the jugular veins are enlarged or bulging, it is a sign of increased pressure in the veins, which can be indicative of underlying health conditions such as heart failure or fluid overload.
One method to assess jugular vein distention is the Jugular Venous Pressure (JVP) measurement. This involves the patient lying at a 45-degree angle and the clinician visually inspecting the jugular veins while estimating the height of the venous pulsation above the sternal angle. Normal JVP is typically less than 3 centimeters above the sternal angle.
It is important to note that jugular vein distention should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to determine its cause and appropriate management.