Progress with measurement, information and decision-making in critical care medicine

Abstract This paper focuses upon the need to provide information to the clinician in the critical care unit in order to enhance the decision-making capability. The role of intelligent instrumentation is highlighted, indicating its function in converting data into information which is then interpreted in the clinical context. Examples drawn from the interpretation of blood gas results and the provision of ventilation management are presented. The role of intelligent instrumentation in the wider role of patient management is discussed.