The following capnogram was recorded on a patient receiving mechanical ventilation in the ICU. What is the most likely interpretation of this capnogram?
- Emphysema
- Atelectasis
- Pulmonary fibrosis
- Esophageal intubation
Explanation
A steady rise in the amount of exhaled CO2 is observed by the upward slope of the curve. This shark fin appearance indicates airway obstruction exists. A normal curve should appear as a flat plateau rather than a sharp upward slope. Patients with emphysema require more time to empty their lungs. Therefore, exhaled CO2 continues to rise during the alveolar phase of the capnogram.