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

Resources

Using Continuous Monitoring: Example #2*

Case: 60 YO female admitted with low back pain. PCA morphine for pain control. Continuous SpO2 monitoring, previously spot checking SpO2. Uncontrolled pain 9/10. PCA dose to 2 mg.

Clinical Findings:

• Lethargic, RR 6 breaths/minute
• Initial SpO2 value 68%
• Initial EtCO2 value 72 mmHg

Clinical Interventions:

• Supplemental O2 , notified RT
• Encouraged deep breathing exercises
• SpO2 82%, PCA therapy discontinued

Outcome:

• Patient RR returned to norma
• Level of consciousness returned to normal

Learning Point: Continuous monitoring helps detect decreasing respiratory status and trends before respiratory failure. Use critical thinking and notice trends.³

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