What should be monitored continuously in patients receiving CPAP therapy?

In patients receiving Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy, it is crucial to monitor oxygen saturation (SpO2) and end-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) levels continuously. CPAP is primarily used to maintain airway patency and improve ventilation, particularly in conditions such as congestive heart failure or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Monitoring SpO2 is vital because it indicates the effectiveness of oxygenation; low levels could signify inadequate respiratory function or worsening hypoxia.

EtCO2 monitoring is also important as it provides insights into the patient's ventilatory status. Elevated levels can indicate inadequate ventilation, which could lead to respiratory failure. Continuous monitoring of these parameters helps ensure that CPAP therapy is effective and allows for prompt intervention if the patient's respiratory status deteriorates.

In contrast, while urine output, heart rate, and blood glucose levels may be relevant in a broader clinical context, they do not directly reflect the immediate respiratory impact of CPAP therapy. Therefore, SpO2 and EtCO2 levels are the primary indicators to focus on in this scenario.