What does an end-tidal CO2 monitor assess?

An end-tidal CO2 monitor is primarily used to assess the adequacy of ventilation by measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled air. This monitoring provides real-time feedback on how effectively a patient is ventilating. During the process of respiration, CO2 levels in the blood change based on metabolic activity and the effectiveness of the lungs in exchanging gases.

When ventilation is adequate, the end-tidal CO2 readings will typically fall within a normal range, indicating that the body is able to expel CO2 effectively. Conversely, elevated levels of end-tidal CO2 can suggest hypoventilation, while low levels may indicate hyperventilation or potential issues with perfusion. Therefore, monitoring end-tidal CO2 is crucial for assessing a patient's ventilation status, which can be particularly important in critical care settings or during sedation and anesthesia.