Physio-Control LIFEPAK 15 - Manual (Page 89)

MONITORING
4
©2007-2013 Physio-Control, Inc. LIFEPAK 15 Monitor/Defibrillator Operating Instructions
4-45
Monitoring ETCO2
Intended Use
The end-tidal CO
2
(EtCO
2
) monitor is a capnometric device that uses non-dispersive infrared
spectroscopy to continuously measure the amount of CO
2
during each breath and report the amount
present at the end of exhalation (EtCO
2
). The sample is obtained by the side stream method and
can be used with intubated or nonintubated patients. Respiration rate is also measured and
displayed in breaths per minute.
The EtCO
2
monitor is a tool to be used in addition to patient assessment. Care should be taken to
assess the patient at all times; do not rely solely on the EtCO
2
monitor.
Indications
EtCO
2
monitoring is used to detect trends in the level of expired CO
2
. It is used for monitoring
breathing efficacy and treatment effectiveness in acute cardiopulmonary care, for example, to
determine if adequate compressions are being performed during CPR or to rapidly detect
whether an endotracheal tube has been placed successfully.
Contraindications
None known.
EtCO2 Monitoring Warnings
WARNINGS
FIRE HAZARDS
FIRE HAZARD
Before use, carefully read these operating instructions, the FilterLine ® tubing
directions for use, and precautionary information.
FIRE HAZARD
The FilterLine tubing may ignite in the presence of O
2
when directly exposed to laser,
electrosurgical devices, or high heat. Use with caution to prevent flammability of the
FilterLine tubing.
FIRE HAZARD
Flammable anesthetics become mixed with the patient’s air that is sampled by the
capnometer. When using the EtCO
2
monitor in the presence of flammable gases, such
as nitrous oxide or certain other anesthetics, connect the EtCO
2
gas port to a
scavenger system.