What is the equation for mean arterial pressure (MAP)?

Mean arterial pressure (MAP) is a critical parameter in assessing the cardiovascular system, particularly in critically ill patients. The correct equation for calculating MAP is derived from the relationship between cardiac output (CO) and systemic vascular resistance (SVR).

The equation MAP = CO x SVR indicates that the mean arterial pressure is influenced by both the blood flow directed by the heart (CO) and the resistance that the blood encounters as it travels through the circulatory system (SVR). A higher cardiac output or systemic vascular resistance results in a higher mean arterial pressure, which is vital for ensuring adequate perfusion to vital organs.

Understanding this relationship aids healthcare providers in managing blood pressure and recognizing the implications of changes in either CO or SVR in critically ill patients. This knowledge is essential for making informed decisions about interventions to optimize hemodynamics.