Blood pressure response simulator to vasopressor drug infusion (PressorSim)

Abstract

In this paper, we introduce a model-based simulator of a hypotensive patient’s blood pressure response to intravenous drug treatment (PresorSim). PressorSim is designed based on a nonlinear mathematical model of the mean arterial pressure (MAP) response to vasoactive drugs, such as phenylephrine (PHP) and sodium nitroprusside (SNP). The PressorSim has the ability to assess the physiological response of hypotensive patients to vasopressor treatment for hemodynamic stabilisation and can simulate open-loop (bolus or continuous infusion) of drug treatment, as well as, closed-loop feedback (automated) drug administration. In that aspect, PressorSim is expected to be a useful decision support tool for assessment and evaluation of open-loop and closed-loop drug administration strategies at various physiological response scenarios and to assist treatment. Additionally, it provides a training tool of medical personnel on hemodynamic stabilisation of virtual patients using vasoactive drugs at various simulated critical hypotensive conditions.