Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a system and method for generating a simulated pulse to be used in combination with a patient monitor. In many embodiments, a pulse is simulated by displacing a volume in a pressurized system. For instance, in one embodiment, the volume in the pressurized system is displaced by rotating a first end of a tube relative to a second end that is held stationary. A portion of the tube collapses due to the twisting causing the volume in the system to decrease. The first end of the tube may be rotated back to its original position causing the volume in the system to return to its original state. This change in volume simulates a pulse.
