[Computers in intensive care units (author's transl)].

The increasing amount of physiological data which is required to be stored and displayed has created a need for computers in Intensive Care Units. Small computerised units are now available with three main advantages: 1. A memory allowing the display of parameters value and trend curves. 2. A "decision table" allowing more sophisticated diagnosis. 3. The use of new programmes without having to change the unit. These systems are reliable, providing the quality of the input signal is adequate.