End tidal Capnography, one of the least commonly used; however very useful diagnostic tool that we have available on the ambulance. Available in mainstream or side stream form, this tool can be very useful when utilized specifically n your respiratory distress calls. With the main stream Capnography, the CO2 sensor is found between the endotrachial tube and breathing circuit. This form has no delay in recording, no sampling tube, and is suitable for neonates and children. However, main stream form of Capnography has a long electrical cord, is difficult to use in awkward positioned patients, and the sensor windows can clog with secretions. With the side stream Capnography, the sensor is located in the main unit and CO2 is blown off into a…show more content… Regardless of which form you use, this tool should be utilized in respiratory distress calls to help differentiate which type of respiratory disease or emergency to diagnose and how to treat t. it also helps you see trends in your treatment whether they show positive changes or negative changes. The wave form that end tidal Capnography provides on the screen can help you determine quality and quantity of ventilations, whether they are beings assisted or the patient is inhaling and exhaling on their own. Each wave form represents one breath cycle and should be in a box like shape with a flat plateau. If the plateau of the wave is elevated and shows inclines slope, known as “shark fin”, then you can suspect bronco-spasms caused by asthma or coronary obstructive pulmonary disease. A long plateau suggests hypoventilation, where a shorter plateau suggests hyperventilation. You can also use this tool to aid in verification of an endotracheal tube placement during cardiac arrest. If you see a sudden drop or even disappearance of wave form, this is a sign of tube displacement. Other great ways to use end tidal Capnography include aiding in diagnosing septic shock and determining if ventilations are being done
