The invention provides a system for monitoring a patient that includes a sensor configured to drape around the patients neck. The sensor features an impedance sensor for measuring fluids, an ECG sensor for measuring cardiac activity, and a first wireless transceiver for transmitting this information. Integrated with the sensor is a computer, featuring a second wireless transceiver, video output system, and a computer processing unit (CPU). The CPU is configured to receive control signals from the first wireless transceiver that control a software program and the information related to fluids and cardiac activity. The software program renders a graphical user interface that displays the information through the video output system. The system also includes a conventional television set or mobile device that interfaces to the computer through the video output system and renders the graphical user interface.