Waveform capnography is a noninvasive measurement of ventilation and perfusion commonly employed in the prehospital setting. It is easy to apply, and modern cardiac monitors are equipped with the necessary ports and capability to display results. Despite its ease of use, end-tidal CO2 monitoring has not yet achieved widespread adoption within the hospital setting. It is routinely used in the emergency department and by anesthesiologists, but its application could support ICU management in critically ill patients. Its use is routinely supported by multiple professional societies, and it has been recommended as a requirement in all cardiac arrests. Careful analysis of the waveform and expired carbon dioxide can guide therapy for patients experiencing respiratory emergencies, hemodynamic compromise, metabolic acidosis, and shock due to trauma, hypovolemia, or sepsis. Use of capnography throughout the hospital could improve patient outcomes and prevent unidentified deterioration.
Keyphrases
- carbon dioxide
- emergency department
- intensive care unit
- end stage renal disease
- mechanical ventilation
- chronic kidney disease
- ejection fraction
- healthcare
- left ventricular
- newly diagnosed
- adverse drug
- prognostic factors
- peritoneal dialysis
- electronic health record
- acute care
- magnetic resonance
- contrast enhanced
- respiratory failure
- septic shock
- cardiopulmonary resuscitation