Welch Allyn Propaq Quick Start Guide For Co2 Waveforms User Manual

2

2

QG_CO2.frm Page 1 Friday, February 13, 2004 4:26 PM

Propaq

®

Vital Signs Monitor

Quick Guide for CO

Waveforms

2

60

C

D

30

0

This Guide is intended for quick reference only. It is strongly recommended that clinicians new to capnography also
refer to published educational literature on this subject.

All waveform illustrations in this guide apply to both
Mainstream CO
Sidestream CO

waveforms tend to be slightly more defined, especially on the upstroke, plateau, downstroke;

2

waveforms are more rounded.

2

AB

Mainstream CO

E

and Sidestream CO

with intubated patients.

QG_CO2.frm Page 2 Friday, February 13, 2004 4:26 PM

The Normal CO

Waveform

2

60

C

D

30

0

The “normal” capnogram shape consists of the following:

AB

A-B Zero baseline – the beginning of exhalation
B-C Rapid, sharp rise – anatomical dead space gas replaced by more

distal airway gases that contain more CO

C-D Alveolar “plateau” – contains mixed alveolar gases
D End-Tidal CO

– highest concentration of exhaled CO

2

D-E Rapid, sharp downstroke – inhalation phase; fresh gas rapidly

replaces CO

2

E

2

2

QG_CO2.frm Page 3 Friday, February 13, 2004 4:26 PM

Endotracheal Tube In Esophagus

60

30

0

If inadvertent esophageal intubation occurs, the capnogram indicates the
endotracheal tube is incorrectly positioned and ventilation is not taking place.
Look for:

• No CO

• Only small, short-lived capnograms displayed

measured

2