A method and apparatus (100) for providing continuous analysis and display of the variability of multiple patient parameters monitored by multiple beside monitors (106a-106c) for each patient (102). Each monitor is connected to a patient interface and to a patient data storage unit (115) and a processor (113). Each monitored patient parameter is measured in real-time. Data artifacts are removed, and variability analysis is performed based upon a selected period of observation. Variability analysis yields variability of the patient parameters, which represents a degree to which the patient parameters fluctuate over time, to provide diagnostic information particularly useful in the detection, prevention and treatment of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).