Objectives
* Describe the components of the respiratory cycle as depicted on a capnogram.
* Describe the normal partial concentration levels of inhaled/exhaled oxygen and exhaled arbon dioxide.
* Describe capnographic indicators for a confirmed airway in the intubated patient.
* Understand diagnostic differences between bronchospastic and non-bronchospastic disease processes as they are presented on a capnographic waveform.
* Understand capnographic waveform changes as they relate to cardiac arrest, shock, and metabolic states.

Topic Highlights
Dr. Baruch Krauss described capnography as being for EMS in the 21st century what the ECG was for the 20th century.  Measuring exhaled carbon dioxide has the value to the street level EMS provider of not only confirming correct endotracheal tube placement, but also in determining the level of shock a patient is in, to diagnose respiratory illness differentiating between bronchospastic and other ailments, and to provide additional patient information on perfusion and other metabolic states.

Audience/Track
This class is for the ALS provider and the EMS educator.