capnography

capnography /cap·nog·ra·phy/ (kap-nog´rah-fe) monitoring of the concentration of exhaled carbon dioxide in order to assess physiologic status or determine the adequacy of ventilation during anesthesia.

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capnography

the technique of taking capnograms.

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mainstream capnography

uses an in-line infrared CO₂ sensor connected directly to the airway, between the endotracheal tube and the breathing circuit.

sidestream capnography

airway gas samples are collected from the breathing circuit; the infrared sensor is located in a remote monitor.

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capnography Capnometry Pulmonology The measurement and graphic display of CO₂ levels in the airways, which can be performed by infrared spectroscopy; capnography facilitates Pt management by providing
1. Continuous and noninvasive monitoring of ventilation in critically ill Pts and 2. Early detection of clinically significant changes in respiratory status by displaying changes in the amount of CO₂ and abnormal CO₂ waveforms; capnography can be used to detect a wide range of clinical conditions–eg, extubation of respiratory support, hypotension or massive blood loss, emphysema, COPD, pulmonary embolism, and others. See Infrared capnography.