Which statement about capnography during airway management is true?

Which statement about capnography during airway management is true?

• A. It can confirm ventilation and detect dislodgement by showing a waveform and EtCO2
• B. It only measures blood pressure
• C. It is optional and often unreliable
• D. It is not used in EMS contexts

Answer: (D)

Capnography gives real-time feedback on ventilation by showing a CO2 waveform and a numeric end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2). This combination confirms that air is reaching the lungs and that the airway device is positioned and functioning. If the endotracheal tube slips out of place or the airway becomes obstructed, the waveform can disappear or EtCO2 can drop suddenly, signaling a problem so you can correct it immediately. In EMS, capnography is standard during airway management because it provides reliable, continuous monitoring of ventilation, not just an occasional reading. It does not measure blood pressure, and it is not something optional or unreliable when used correctly.

Capnography gives real-time feedback on ventilation by showing a CO2 waveform and a numeric end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2). This combination confirms that air is reaching the lungs and that the airway device is positioned and functioning. If the endotracheal tube slips out of place or the airway becomes obstructed, the waveform can disappear or EtCO2 can drop suddenly, signaling a problem so you can correct it immediately. In EMS, capnography is standard during airway management because it provides reliable, continuous monitoring of ventilation, not just an occasional reading. It does not measure blood pressure, and it is not something optional or unreliable when used correctly.