MAP (Mean Arterial Pressure) Calculator
Calculate MAP from systolic and diastolic BP with target ranges for sepsis, TBI, and spinal cord injury.
Understanding this tool
Why nurses use it
Mean arterial pressure (MAP) estimates average perfusion pressure throughout the cardiac cycle. It guides targets in sepsis bundles, neurocritical care, trauma, and any setting where organ perfusion matters more than a single systolic reading.
When to use it
Use when reviewing blood pressure trends, especially in ICU, sepsis, haemorrhage, or when MAP targets are specified (e.g. ≥65 mmHg in septic shock per local sepsis bundles).
Calculate
How to use this calculator
- Enter systolic and diastolic BP (same cuff reading or arterial line).
- Compare MAP with diagnosis-specific targets.
- Interpret alongside urine output, lactate, mental status, and perfusion.
How the calculation works
MAP ≈ DBP + (SBP − DBP) ÷ 3. Diastole lasts longer than systole, so MAP is weighted toward diastolic pressure.
Formula used by this tool — verify units before applying at the bedside.
Worked example
Limitations & clinical notes
- Target MAP varies by condition (sepsis, hemorrhage, TBI, spinal cord injury).
- Non-invasive BP may differ from arterial line MAP.
- Sepsis guidelines cite ≥65 mmHg as a common minimum — individual targets depend on diagnosis and perfusion assessment.
References
Key sources: Surviving Sepsis Campaign 2026.
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Disclaimer: This calculator is for educational and bedside double-check purposes only. It does not replace institutional protocols, prescriber orders, pharmacist verification, or clinical judgment. Always follow your local policies — especially for high-risk medications, infusions, pediatrics, and critical care. If the patient is acutely unwell, escalate immediately rather than relying on any calculator output.