Flat capnogram is seen in all except:-: (A) Disconnection of endotracheal tube, (B) Accidental extubation, (C) Ventilation failure, (D) Endobronchial intubation
Answer is D. A sudden drop of ET Co2 to near Zero followed by absence of a Co2 waveform heralds a potentially life threatening problem. Differential diagnosis D/d. 1. Malposition of an Endotracheal tube into the pharynx or oesophagus. 2. Circuit Disconnection 3. Stoppage of ventilation 4. Cardiac arrest 5. Massive pulmonary embolism