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

Resources

Using Continuous Monitoring: Example #4*

Case: Post-op patient. PCA morphine for pain. Continuous SpO2 monitoring. Multiple SpO2 low alarms occurred. Nurse discontinued SpO2 monitor because of what was believed to be nuisance alarms.

Clinical Findings:

• Lethargic, sedate, and severe respiratory distress
• SpO2 values in mid 90's, had mid 80's throughout night

Clinical Interventions:

• Supplemental O2 and continuous SpO2 and EtCO2 monitoring
• RT staff and M.D. notified

Outcome:

• Patient transferred to ICU
• Diagnosed with severe CHF

Learning Point: Changes in patient condition may be subtle and not easily recognized without continuous respiratory monitoring. Critically think through all patient alarms for 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