Capnography

Definition

Capnography is a monitoring tool that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled air, indicating respiratory status. It is crucial for assessing ventilation and detecting potential respiratory issues early.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Capnography provides real-time feedback on a patient's ventilatory status.
2. It is often used in critical care settings to monitor patients with respiratory distress or those under anesthesia.
3. Normal capnography values typically range from 35 to 45 mmHg.
4. Abnormal capnography readings can indicate hypoventilation, hyperventilation, or other pulmonary complications.
5. Nutrition can impact capnography readings; malnutrition or overnutrition may affect respiratory muscle function and CO2 production.

Review Questions

• What does capnography measure and why is it important in clinical settings?
• How can nutrition influence capnography readings?
• What are normal capnography values and what might deviations indicate?

Related terms

Spirometry: A common pulmonary function test that measures lung volume and airflow rates.

Pulse Oximetry: A non-invasive method for monitoring the oxygen saturation of a patient's blood.

Respiratory Rate: The number of breaths a person takes per minute, an essential vital sign indicating overall respiratory health.