The End tidal CO2 (ETCO2), is measured at the end of expiration and used to confirm that the patient is being ventilated and during cardiac arrest. It is also used as a surrogate marker for cardiac output. Can we also use it to trouble shoot over ventilation or airway closure?
Airway management during cardiac arrest is a controversial area and one in which there is little certainly. The goal in airway management is to adequately oxygenate and ventilate without interrupting CPR. It is for this reason that we intubate after ROSC is achieved.
