Standards Procedure (Skill)

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Capnography

Clinical Indications:                                                               Level: EMT-P only

Ø      Capnography shall be used when available with all endotracheal or Combitube airways

Procedure:

a.       Attach the capnography sensory to combitube or endotracheal airway.

b.      Note CO2 level and waveform change.  These will be documented on every respiratory failure or cardiac arrest patient.

c.       The capnometer shall remain in place with the airway and continuous monitoring will be performed throughout the prehospital care and transport.

d.      Any loss of CO2 detection or waveform indicates an airway problem and should be addressed and documented.

e.       The capnogram should be monitored as procedures are performed to verify or correct the airway problem.

f.        Document the procedure and results on the ACR.

Certification Requirements:

Successfully complete an annual skill evaluation including the indications, contraindications, technique, and possible complications of the procedure.