Which patients should be monitored with EtCO2 if the nasal cannula sampling device is available?

Monitoring EtCO2 (end-tidal carbon dioxide) is particularly useful for assessing the respiratory status of patients. The correct choice states that patients in respiratory distress and those receiving pain medication should be monitored with EtCO2 if a nasal cannula sampling device is available.

Patients in respiratory distress are at risk for altered ventilation and may experience changes in their carbon dioxide levels. By monitoring EtCO2, healthcare providers can gather critical information about a patient’s respiratory effectiveness, helping to guide interventions and track progress.

Additionally, patients receiving pain medication, particularly opioids, may experience respiratory depression. This is a significant concern as it can lead to hypoventilation and increased carbon dioxide retention. Monitoring EtCO2 will help identify any significant changes in their respiratory status so timely interventions can be initiated.

In contrast, focusing solely on unconscious patients or patients with cardiac issues does not encompass the broader population that would benefit from EtCO2 monitoring, especially considering the potential acute changes in respiratory function associated with distress and opioid use. Although head injuries require careful monitoring, they are not the only group that would benefit from this type of assessment. Monitoring EtCO2 serves a preventive and investigative role, particularly in scenarios where respiration may be compromised.