ECG, blood pressure, respiration and heart rate are the parameters displayed in most monitors. It is possible to add modules for oxygen saturation (SaO2), carbon dioxide in expired air (ETCO2 – endo tracheal CO2) and temperature. Blood pressure monitoring can be done non-invasively (cuff pressure) or non-invasively (within the artery). Central venous pressure is also monitored in most invasive monitors. Each one needs a separate sensor or transducer and an additional channel on the monitor. Sophisticated ECG monitoring can automatically detect ST segment elevation indicating myocardial ischemia and cardiac arrhythmia (disturbances in heart rhythm).
