What role does capnography play in airway management?

Capnography plays a critical role in airway management by providing real-time data on the patient’s carbon dioxide (CO2) levels through the measurement of exhaled CO2 concentrations. This information is vital for assessing the effectiveness of ventilation and monitoring the adequacy of the airway. Changes in CO2 levels can indicate whether the patient is being ventilated properly, alerting healthcare providers to potential respiratory complications, such as hypoventilation or hyperventilation.

Moreover, capnography assists in confirming proper endotracheal tube placement by detecting the presence of CO2 in exhaled breath, which is not present in the gastric contents. This ensures that the airway intervention performed is effective and that the patient receives appropriate ventilation support.

By continuously monitoring CO2 levels, capnography enhances patient safety during airway management and provides immediate feedback that can influence interventions and clinical decision-making.