End-Tidal CO2 Monitoring

Question 1

Capnography (an EtCO2 value with a waveform) allows for the assessment of ___

Answer 1

ventilation and/or perfusion

Question 2

Failure to obtain an EtCO2numerical reading and/or waveform requires the
following immediate action

Answer 2

i. Re-visualization of the ETT or i-gel using direct/video laryngoscopy.
ii. If proper location of the ETT or i-gel is not confirmed, immediate removal of
the airway and use of an alternative airway

Question 3

A sudden drop in EtCO2 output and an obvious change in the waveform is indicative
of ___

Answer 3

advanced airway displacement (most likely into the hypopharynx) or a cuff leak

Question 4

A sudden and sustained drop in EtCO2output may indicate a ____

Answer 4

blocked airway

Question 5

In cardiac arrest Apply waveform capnography device as soon as ____

Answer 5

feasible

Question 6

___ventilate to EtCO2 values during cardiac arrest as hyperventilation or
hypoventilation are harmful to the patient. During cardiac arrest, the EtCO2
values are indicative of pulmonary blood flow (i.e., chest compression quality

Answer 6

Do NOT

Question 7

. A sudden and sustained rise in EtCO2 values may indicate ___.

Answer 7

ROSC

Question 8

A “____” waveform can be seen in asthma and COPD

Answer 8

shark fin

Question 9

A gradual decline in EtCO2 values may be the first sign of ___ in a patient
who has achieved ROSC

Answer 9

recurrent arrest

Question 10

Remember: pulse oximetry does not equate to ventilation. You can have a poorly
ventilated patient displaying an oxygen saturation of 100%. Excessively high PaCO2
levels can be ___ to your patient’s outcome.

Answer 10

detrimental

Question 11

A sudden drop in CO2 output from normal (35-40 mmHg) to 15-20 mmHg and an
obvious change in the waveform is indicative of ___, most likely into the
___

Answer 11

tube displacement, hypopharynx

Question 12

Sepsis: in patients with concern for infection and ≥2 of the following: respiratory
rate >__, heart rate >__ BPM and fever (i.e. SIRS criteria), an EtCO2
<___ mmHg may predict sepsis and increased mortality. Treat per Sepsis protocol.

Answer 12

20, 90, 25

Question 13

DKA: in patient with elevated blood sugar, EtCO2 <___ mmHg may indicate DKA.

Answer 13

25

Question 14

Patients with signs of increased intracranial pressure (unilateral dilated pupil, posturing,
focal neurologic findings) maintain EtCO2 between___ mmHg.

Answer 14

30-35