What does a shark fin ETCO2 waveform indicate?

Ventilation: Asthma, CHF and COPD Bronchospasm will produce a “shark fin”-appearing capnography waveform as a result of regional obstruction that causes a turbulent mixing of dead space air with alveolar air. This mixing softens the rapid rise in CO2 concentration of exhaled air.

What causes shark fin capnography?

With bronchoconstriction, caused by asthma, COPD, and sometimes pneumonia, air is released inconsistently from the constricted lower airways. This causes the normally rectangular-shaped capnography waveform to have a “shark-fin” appearance [1].

What is a normal end-tidal CO2 reading?

End-tidal CO2 – EtCO2 is a noninvasive technique which represents the partial pressure or maximal concentration of CO2 at the end of exhalation. Normal value is 35-45 mmHg.

What is abnormal Capnogram?

A commonly seen abnormal capnogram results when the patient makes spontaneous respiratory efforts and inhales before the next mechanical inspiration. This characteristic cleft in the alveolar plateau is a useful clinical sign indicating that the patient has started to breathe (Figure 24-7).

What is true of quantitative waveform capnography?

Quantitative Waveform Capnography. Quantitative waveform capnography is the continuous measurement of carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), specifically end-tidal CO 2. The capnography device uses a sensor that detects CO 2 levels in expired air. This device can be part of a nasal cannula filter line or be attached to a bag mask device or ET tube.

What is waveform capnography?

What is Waveform Capnography. Quantitative waveform capnography is the continuous, noninvasive measurement and graphical display of end-tidal carbon dioxide/ETCO2 (also called PetCO2). Capnography uses a sample chamber/sensor placed for optimum evaluation of expired CO2.

What is end tidal CO2?

The end tidal CO2 is a measure of carbon dioxide in the blood. Its measurement determines the adequacy of ventilation, cardiac output, pulmonary perfusion, and.