Alaris® EtCO2 module
Topic 7: Putting EtCO2 Monitoring into Practice

Resources

Using Continuous Monitoring: Example #3*

Case: Post-op orthopedic patient. PCA morphine for pain. Continuous SpO2 and EtCO2 monitoring.

Clinical Findings:

• Sedate, RR within normal limits
• Multiple No Breath Detected alarms on EtCO2 module throughout night
• Initial EtCO2 value 72 mmHg

Clinical Interventions:

• Assessment, easily awakened, pain scores 4 at rest
• Continued monitoring, suspected sleep apnea
• M.D. notified, pulmonary specialty consult ordered

Outcome:

• Patient diagnosed with sleep apnea

Learning Point: Continuous respiratory monitoring helps to identify trends and previously unknown risk factors. Critically think of possible etiologies and notice trends.³ Use other hospital resources (i.e., other nurses or RT staff).

³Thalan's Critical Care Nursing Diagnosis and Management 4th Ed. (2001). Ed. Urden, L.D.; Stacy, K.M.; & Lough,
*Data on file with Cardinal Health