An ETCO2 reading of 15 mmHg or higher indicates what during ALS?

An ETCO2 reading of 15 mmHg or higher indicates what during ALS?

• A. Adequate forward movement of blood
• B. Adequate ventilation
• C. ROSC
• D. Poor perfusion

Answer: (A)

ETCO2 during CPR mainly reflects pulmonary perfusion and cardiac output, not just ventilation. When chest compressions generate enough forward blood flow, CO2-rich blood is delivered to the lungs and expelled, raising the ETCO2. A level around 15 mmHg or higher suggests there is adequate forward blood movement through the circulation, meaning CPR is effectively generating cardiac output. It’s a sign of perfusion produced by compressions rather than a guarantee of ROSC, and it’s not simply about ventilation, which could be high or low independent of perfusion.

ETCO2 during CPR mainly reflects pulmonary perfusion and cardiac output, not just ventilation. When chest compressions generate enough forward blood flow, CO2-rich blood is delivered to the lungs and expelled, raising the ETCO2. A level around 15 mmHg or higher suggests there is adequate forward blood movement through the circulation, meaning CPR is effectively generating cardiac output. It’s a sign of perfusion produced by compressions rather than a guarantee of ROSC, and it’s not simply about ventilation, which could be high or low independent of perfusion.