QG_CO2.frm Page 1 Friday, February 13, 2004 4:26 PM
Propaq®
Vital Signs Monitor
Quick Guide for CO2 Waveforms
60
30
0
C D
A B E
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 CO2 and Sidestream CO2 with intubated patients. Mainstream CO2 waveforms tend to be slightly more defined, especially on the upstroke, plateau, downstroke; Sidestream CO2 waveforms are more rounded.
QG_CO2.frm Page 2 Friday, February 13, 2004 4:26 PM
The Normal CO2 Waveform
60
30
0
C D
A B E
The “normal” capnogram shape consists of the following:
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 CO2
C-D Alveolar “plateau” – contains mixed alveolar gases
D End-Tidal CO2 – highest concentration of exhaled CO2
D-E Rapid, sharp downstroke – inhalation phase; fresh gas rapidly replaces CO2
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 CO2 measured
•Only small, short-lived capnograms displayed
Loading...