What is the primary purpose of using capnography during resuscitation?

The primary purpose of using capnography during resuscitation is to verify tube placement and ventilation status. Capnography measures the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled air, providing real-time feedback on a patient's ventilatory status. During resuscitation, it is crucial to confirm that an endotracheal tube is correctly placed in the trachea rather than the esophagus. A rising end-tidal CO2 level is an indication that air is reaching the lungs effectively, which is essential for determining the efficacy of resuscitation efforts.

While other monitoring techniques, such as assessing blood pressure or measuring oxygen saturation, are important, they do not provide specific information related to the placement and functionality of the airway. Heart rate monitoring is also vital during resuscitation, but it does not inform the practitioner whether the patient is being ventilated adequately. Therefore, capnography serves a unique function in ensuring that ventilation is occurring correctly, making it an essential tool during resuscitation efforts.