End-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) monitoring is not a new modality in the pediatric emergency department (PED) and emergency department. It is the standard of care during certain procedures such as intubations and sedations and can be used in variety of clinical situations. However, ETCO2 may be underused in the PED setting. The implementation of ETCO2 monitoring may be accomplished many ways, but a foundation of capnography principles specifically in ventilation, cardiac output, and current literature regarding its application is essential to successful implementation. It is the intention of this article to briefly review the principles of ETCO2 monitoring and its clinical applications in the PED setting.
Attending (Selby), Cook Childrens Medical Center, Fort Worth, TX; and Professor (Abramo, Hobart-Porter), University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Pediatrics, Little Rock, AR.
Reprints: Samuel T. Selby, DO, Cook Childrens Medical Center, 801 7th Ave, Ft. Worth, TX 76104 (e-mail: dr.samselby@gmail.com).
The authors, faculty, and staff in a position to control the content of this CME activity and their spouses/life partners (if any) have disclosed that they have no financial relationships with, or financial interest in, any commercial organizations relevant to this educational activity.
