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How to calculate mean arterial blood pressure.

Mean Arterial Pressure Formula:

\[ MAP = \frac{SBP + 2 \times DBP}{3} \]

mmHg
mmHg

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1. What is Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP)?

Definition: MAP is the average arterial pressure throughout one cardiac cycle, systole, and diastole.

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:

\[ MAP = \frac{SBP + 2 \times DBP}{3} \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula accounts for the fact that the heart spends more time in diastole than systole.

3. Importance of MAP Calculation

Details: MAP is crucial in clinical settings to ensure adequate organ perfusion. A MAP of at least 60 mmHg is necessary to perfuse coronary arteries, brain, and kidneys.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the systolic and diastolic blood pressure values in mmHg. Both values must be > 0.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is MAP important?
A: MAP reflects the perfusion pressure reaching the organs and is a better indicator of blood flow than systolic or diastolic pressure alone.

Q2: What is a normal MAP range?
A: Typically between 70-100 mmHg. Below 60 mmHg may indicate inadequate blood flow to organs.

Q3: Why does DBP have more weight in the formula?
A: Because the heart spends about two-thirds of the cardiac cycle in diastole, so diastolic pressure has more influence on the average.

Q4: Can MAP be higher than DBP?
A: Yes, MAP is always between SBP and DBP, typically closer to DBP because of the weighting.

Q5: How is MAP used in medical settings?
A: It's used to guide treatment in shock, hypertension, and during surgeries to ensure adequate organ perfusion.

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