Clinical Measurements

Hemodynamic measurements initially included central venous pressure, arterial pressure, and cardiac output measured by the dye dilution technique. These were complimented by early measurements of blood gases on arterial and central vein blood and so-called “STAT” laboratory measurements including blood chemistry, urine, and radioisotope blood volume measurements.  In parallel with already established measurements which guided respiratory interventions including  mechanical ventilation, control of the airway with endotracheal intubation, and breathing of patients were initially supported with primitive positive pressure machines.