Experimental studies with a clinical monitor and diagnostic computer.

A clinical monitor and computer is described which uses input information about heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen saturation. The data are processed in a simple diagnostic computer, the circulatory failure analyser, to give a diagnosis of cardiac arrest, hypoxia and oligaemic shock and to give early warning of tachycardia, bradycardia, hypertension, hypotension and cyanosis. The analyser was tested on simulated signals and experimentally in animals. The validity of the logic utilized by the computer was confirmed and the sensitivity as a monitor was assessed.