Capnograph
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A capnograph is a CO₂ monitoring device that measures end-tidal carbon dioxide and respiratory rate from a patient’s exhaled breath, displaying both values and waveforms in real time. Used in operating theatres, ICUs, emergency and procedural sedation areas, it helps confirm airway placement, assess ventilation and detect problems such as hypoventilation or obstruction early. Healthcare providers choose capnographs to strengthen patient safety and improve decision-making during anaesthesia and critical care.
Description
A capnograph is a specialised monitoring device used to measure and display the level of carbon dioxide (CO₂) in a patient’s exhaled breath, most importantly the end-tidal CO₂ (EtCO₂). By analysing CO₂ waveforms and values breath-by-breath, it gives clinicians a real-time picture of how effectively the patient is ventilating and how well circulation is supporting gas exchange.
Modern capnographs are available as compact handheld units, bedside monitors or integrated modules in multi-parameter systems. They typically use mainstream or sidestream technology connected via an airway adapter, sampling line or nasal cannula and can be used with both intubated and non-intubated patients across adult, paediatric and neonatal populations.
Typical features and benefits include:
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Continuous measurement of EtCOâ‚‚ and respiratory rate, with clear numeric values and a capnogram waveform.
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Audible and visual alarms for abnormal COâ‚‚ levels, apnea, disconnection or low battery, supporting early intervention.
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Intuitive colour display and simple controls, making it easy to interpret trends even in fast-paced environments.
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Lightweight designs that are suitable for transport, bedside use and emergency care.
Capnography is now widely recommended as standard monitoring during general anaesthesia and is increasingly required for moderate and deep sedation, because it helps detect hypoventilation and airway obstruction earlier than pulse oximetry alone. Capnographs are therefore used in operating theatres, ICUs, emergency departments, procedural sedation areas, dental and endoscopy suites, and during CPR and patient transport.
Compared with basic respiratory rate observation or oxygen saturation monitoring, a capnograph delivers richer, real-time information about ventilation and trends in circulation, helping clinicians fine-tune ventilator settings, confirm airway placement and respond quickly to deterioration. For any facility focused on patient safety in anaesthesia, critical care or sedation, a reliable capnograph is an essential part of the monitoring portfolio.
