Objectives
The learner will be able to:
* Define the components of CO2 monitoring.
* Discuss Pros and Cons of Capnography.
* Review respiratory cycle.
* Compare Capnography to Oximetry.
* Identify Parts of the Wave Form.
Capnography
* Can be an integral part of the monitoring done in moderate and procedural sedation.
* Is used to monitor / measure the amount of carbon dioxide in respiratory gases.
* Provides information about the effectiveness of respiration’s and end-tidal carbon dioxide values.
Capnography vs Oximetry
* Capnography monitors ventilation, while pulse oximetry monitors oxygenation.
* Capnography thus provides breath-to-breath feedback, and changes in breathing, like apnea, are reflected immediately.
* Changes in pulse oximetry can lag behind breathing changes.
Basic Physiology
* Carbon dioxide is produced in the tissues by metabolism and is then diffused into the blood via the venous system (this is basically equal to cardiac output)
* The blood carrying carbon dioxide enters the right side of the heart and from there travels to the lungs.
* This is where oxygen enters the blood.
Increased Safety of Nurse Sedation
* Acute respiratory events or respiratory depression were earlier identified due to the monitoring of the waveforms on the capnography monitor.
* Capnography can also help detect alveolar hypoventilation even in the presence of supplemental oxygen.
* The use of capnography can reduce hypoxemia and lead to better outcomes in patients undergoing moderate sedation.