Applications of capnography in airway management outside the operating room

Abstract

The capnograph is vital for patient monitoring in the operating room. Its clinical applications for airway management outside the operating room are being increasingly recognized due to its role in the Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care Guidelines. Capnography can be used for the detection of respi-ratory depression during procedural sedation, verification after emergency endotracheal tube intubation, assessment of the airway and circulation during cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and continuous monitoring during patient transportation and in intensive care settings. This can be especially beneficial for pediatric patients, those who are critically ill, and patients with a difficult airway.