1. What is Mean Arterial Pressure?

Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) is the average pressure in a patient's arteries during one cardiac cycle. It is considered a better indicator of perfusion to vital organs than systolic blood pressure alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the standard MAP formula:

Where:

• \( SBP \) — Systolic blood pressure (mmHg)
• \( DBP \) — Diastolic blood pressure (mmHg)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the fact that the heart spends more time in diastole than systole, giving more weight to diastolic pressure.

3. Importance of MAP Calculation

Details: MAP is crucial for assessing blood flow, organ perfusion, and tissue oxygenation. It's particularly important in critical care settings and for patients with hypertension or hypotension.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in mmHg. Values must be valid (SBP > DBP > 0).

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal MAP range?
A: Typically 70-100 mmHg. Below 60 mmHg may indicate inadequate perfusion to vital organs.

Q2: Why is MAP important in critical care?
A: MAP helps guide treatment decisions for shock, hypertension, and ensures adequate organ perfusion.

Q3: How often should MAP be monitored?
A: Frequency depends on clinical situation - continuously in ICU, periodically in stable outpatients.

Q4: Are there other ways to calculate MAP?
A: Some use MAP = (SBP + 2×DBP)/3, which gives similar results to the standard formula.

Q5: Does body position affect MAP measurement?
A: Yes, MAP should ideally be measured with the patient in the same position (usually sitting or supine) for consistency.