1 mm Hg is equivalent to how many centimeters of H2O?

Study for the Barron/Elsevier CCRN Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Ensure success on your exam!

The conversion between millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) and centimeters of water (cm H2O) is based on the density of the fluids involved and the gravitational force acting on them. In this case, 1 mm Hg is equivalent to approximately 1.36 centimeters of water. This relationship arises from the fact that mercury is denser than water; thus, to achieve the same pressure exerted by a column of mercury as a column of water, you need a taller column of water due to its lower density.

The formula that often represents this conversion is as follows: 1 mm Hg = 13.6 mm H2O. Since 1 cm is equal to 10 mm, converting 13.6 mm of water to centimeters gives 1.36 cm H2O. This is why the answer is correct. Understanding these types of conversions is critical in critical care settings where fluid management and hemodynamic monitoring are essential for patient safety and care.

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