Over the last 90 minutes, the therapist has obtained three arterial blood samples from an arterial line inserted in a neonate receiving mechanical ventilation and being monitored by capnometry. The PaCO₂ values were as follows: (1) 47 mm Hg, (2) 46 mm Hg, and (3) 47 mm Hg. How should the therapist evaluate the following capnogram?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Falling partial pressure of end-tidal carbon dioxide (PetCO₂), possibly from an increase in tidal volume or, if PaCO₂ is unchanged, a reduction in pulmonary blood flow from overdistention or low cardiac output.

Over the Last 90 Minutes, the Therapist Has Obtained Three