How long can the exhaled end-tidal CO 2 detector be left in place?
It is recommended the CO 2 detectors be left in place long enough to observe for cycling of colour with several breaths in order to confirm placement of the endotracheal tube in the airway. The detector can then be removed to diminish torque on the ETT and dead space. If repeated confirmation of CO 2 detection is required, an end tidal CO 2 detector may be reused within the time frame specified by the manufacturer.
