Capnography
We have purchased Nasal Capnography Circuits for ALS Providers to sample. They have been placed in the back flap of the Cardiac Monitor. They are to be used in the following situations:
When you suspect Sepsis - SIRS Systemic inflammatory response (Protocol 7005 Shock / Sepsis Statewide ALS Protocol)
At least 2 of the following must be present:
A. Temperature > 100.4 F
B. Heart Rate > 90 bpm
C. Tachypnea > 20 bpm
Hypovolemic Shock from gastrointestinal bleeding or repetitive vomiting/diarrhea in infants/children or Hypoperfusion of unknown etiology.
Capnography can be effectively used during the assessment and treatment of asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients to detect the presence and severity of bronchospasm. It can also guide treatment decisions when the shark fin-denoting bronchospasm doesn’t improve or even worsens
Capnography can also be used effectively in patients with diabetes mellitus, especially to evaluate the patient for diabetic ketoacidosis
Other Resources: Video Resource
Current Capnography Field Uses Capnography Waveforms
Capnography: A vital sign for every EMS Patient
