1. What is Mean Arterial Pressure?

Definition: MAP is the average pressure in a patient's arteries during one cardiac cycle.

Purpose: It's a better indicator of perfusion to vital organs than systolic blood pressure alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( MAP \) — Mean Arterial Pressure (mmHg)
• \( SBP \) — Systolic Blood Pressure (mmHg)
• \( DBP \) — Diastolic Blood Pressure (mmHg)

Explanation: The formula accounts for the fact that two-thirds of the cardiac cycle is spent in diastole.

3. Clinical Importance of MAP

Details: MAP is crucial for maintaining organ perfusion. Generally:

• MAP ≥ 60 mmHg is needed to perfuse coronary arteries, brain, and kidneys
• MAP < 60 mmHg may lead to organ ischemia

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings in mmHg. SBP must be greater than DBP.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a normal MAP range?
A: Typically 70-100 mmHg in healthy adults.

Q2: Why is MAP important in critical care?
A: It's a key indicator of adequate blood flow to organs, especially in shock states.

Q3: How often should MAP be monitored?
A: In hospitalized patients, often continuously via arterial line or with each BP measurement.

Q4: Can MAP be too high?
A: Yes, elevated MAP (>100 mmHg) may indicate hypertension and increased cardiac workload.

Q5: What's the difference between MAP and regular BP?
A: BP shows pressure extremes (SBP/DBP), while MAP shows average perfusion pressure.