End-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) monitoring

End-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) monitoring measures the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air we exhale. It is commonly used in medical settings, especially during anesthesia or critical care, to assess a person's respiratory function. By monitoring ETCO2, healthcare providers can ensure that the lungs are effectively removing CO2, which is a waste product of metabolism. Abnormal levels can indicate issues such as inadequate breathing, lung problems, or even cardiac arrest. Overall, ETCO2 monitoring helps doctors make important decisions about patient care based on how well a person is breathing.