Important Notice: Our web hosting provider recently started charging us for additional visits, which was unexpected. In response, we're seeking donations. Depending on the situation, we may explore different monetization options for our Community and Expert Contributors. It's crucial to provide more returns for their expertise and offer more Expert Validated Answers or AI Validated Answers. Learn more about our hosting issue here.

We use a pulse oximeter on each patient so why use EtCO2 as well?

April 26, 2017etco2 OXIMETER patient pulse

0

Posted

We use a pulse oximeter on each patient so why use EtCO2 as well?

1 Answer

0

Posted

A pulse oximeter measures oxygenation and alerts caregivers to hypoxic events. Capnography measures ventilation and will alert the caregiver to ventilatory events BEFORE a pulse oximeter. In addition, a patient receiving supplemental oxygen can have an SPO2 of 100% and have an EtCO2 of 100mmHg.