A hierarchical minicomputer system for continuous post-surgical monitoring☆

Abstract A patient monitoring system is described which has been implemented with interconnected minicomputers organized in a functional two-level hierarchy. Data acquisition, preliminary analysis using algorithmic signal processing techniques, output displays, and user interaction are functions of the minicomputer at the first level of the hierarchy, the patient preprocessor (PP). An important capability of this system is that waveform data is sampled and analyzed continuously. The encoded compressed data output from each patient preprocessor is transmitted to the Inquiry Station (IS), the minicomputer at the next higher level of the hierarchy. It serves as an extension of preprocessorlike functions which can be more efficiently time-shared within one computer. The inquiry station provides secondary mass storage for data in all eight trend displays, additional algorithmic processing for ECG arrhythmias, and the generation and transmission of appropriate physiologic and data-quality alarm messages to personnel at the bedside. Medications, nurses' notes, fluid input-output, and similar data for the patient's chart are entered into the charting system. Display summaries of this data are available for correlation with data collected and stored in the monitoring system.