Capnography devices are an important tool that are being used with increasing frequency in the pre-hospital and hospital settings. End-tidal capnography can help healthcare providers better monitor and treat patients' conditions. While the normal range for CO2 should be between 35-45mmHg, capnography devices can give healthcare providers greater insight into a patient's condition. It can also help healthcare providers determine whether a patient's ventilation is adequate. If a patient has a high CO2 reading on a capnography device, larger or more frequent breaths may help normalize the CO2 level. If a patient has low CO2 levels, smaller or fewer breaths may help raise their CO2 levels.
Now knowing the importance of a capnography device, you must get the best end tidal capnography device. When looking for a capnography device, there are a few qualities to look for, including: ease of use, portability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness. Capnography devices should be easy to use. This enables all employees to become familiar with the devices and understand how to use them. More end-tidal capnography could be used if more staff were willing to use capnography. This could lead to overall better patient outcomes.
Not all capnography devices can be transported with the patient throughout the hospital or used in the pre-hospital setting. Look for a lightweight capnography unit that attaches easily to a rolling stand and has a reliable battery backup. This will facilitate transport and contribute to patient safety. Moving ventilator patients throughout a hospital can be a high-risk situation. The endotracheal tube can easily dislodge when going to the cat scan or moving the room. Portable capnography enables healthcare providers to detect dislodged endotracheal tubes earlier.
Non-intubated patients would also benefit from the use of portable end-tidal capnography devices. If their breathing goes down in a hospital corridor, healthcare workers will be able to notice this on a capnogram. This will allow medical staff to get help quickly. A good multifunctional end-tidal capnography device should be able to be used in both intubated and non-intubated patients. They should also have the ability to use continuous monitoring or spot checks. This will allow capnographic monitoring to be used in more patients. Hospital equipment can be expensive, so it is important to find quality and reliable equipment at a reasonable price. This allows your hospital to purchase enough of these devices for each patient.