Anesthesia Technician Practice Exam

Which statement is correct regarding the use of ETCO2 monitoring?

1. It is optional per ASA monitoring standards

2. It can be used to detect apnea and bronchospasm

3. Only useful in cases of respiratory failure

4. It measures blood CO2 levels directly

The correct answer is: It can be used to detect apnea and bronchospasm

The use of ETCO2 (end-tidal carbon dioxide) monitoring is essential in anesthesia practice as it provides real-time information about a patient's ventilation status. This monitoring tool measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air, which reflects the patient’s metabolic state and pulmonary function. By detecting changes in ETCO2 levels, practitioners can identify respiratory issues such as apnea (a temporary cessation of breathing) and bronchospasm (a tightening of the muscles around the airways), which are critical conditions that require immediate intervention. Elevated or decreased ETCO2 levels indicate alterations in ventilation, allowing anesthesia providers to adjust ventilatory support accordingly. This capability is vital for ensuring patient safety during anesthesia and is a key component of effective monitoring. The other options do not accurately reflect the role of ETCO2 monitoring. While it is highly recommended and often considered standard practice for patients under anesthesia, the suggestion that it is optional under the ASA standards does not encompass its importance in clinical settings. Additionally, ETCO2 is not exclusively useful in cases of respiratory failure, as it is beneficial during routine monitoring for all patients receiving anesthesia. Finally, ETCO2 does not measure blood CO2 levels directly; rather, it indirectly reflects carbon dioxide elimination through respiration.