What it means
The person takes a breath, holds it, and pushes as if having a bowel movement. This raises the pressure in the chest, which changes blood flow to the heart and can slow the heart through the vagus nerve. It happens naturally when straining on the toilet or lifting. It is named after Antonio Valsalva, an Italian anatomist of the early 1700s.
For the nurse
It may be used on purpose to stop some fast heart rhythms, and clients are asked to do it when a central line is put in or taken out, to keep air from entering the vein. Clients who should avoid straining, such as after heart attacks or brain surgery, may need stool softeners.
At a glance
| Also written | Valsalva, Valsalva's maneuver, Valsalva’s maneuver, Valsalva manoeuvre |
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Related terms
heart rate
How many times the heart beats per minute.
docusate
A stool softener that lets water and fat mix into the stool so it is easier to pass.