Alaris® EtCO2 module
Topic 1: Overview of End Tidal CO2 Monitoring

Resources

What Is EtCO2 (End Tidal Carbon Dioxide)?

EtCO2 is a reflection of alveolar ventilation measured at the upper airway level during exhalation. If alveolar gas exchange is diminished, then EtCO2 levels will decline. For this reason monitoring the continuous ventilation status (respiratory rate) during administration of opioids is a faster indicator of hypoventilation than oxygen desaturation (SpO2).¹

¹Burton, J.H., Harrah, J.D., et al. (2006) Does end-tidal carbon dioxide monitoring detect respiratory events prior to current sedation monitoring practice? Academic Emergency Medicine 13(5):500-504.