Oxygen and CO2 Assessment I

Flashcards summarizing key concepts related to oxygen and CO2 assessment, focusing on pulse oximetry and capnography.

Pulse Oximetry

A non-invasive method to measure the oxygen saturation of hemoglobin in arterial blood.

Methemoglobin

An abnormal form of hemoglobin that cannot bind oxygen, found in the ferric (Fe3+) state.

CO-Hemoglobin (COHb)

Hemoglobin bound to carbon monoxide, which prevents binding with oxygen.

Capnography

A monitoring tool that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled air.

Pulse Oximeter Limitations

Factors such as poor circulation, skin pigmentation, and the presence of abnormal hemoglobin can affect readings.

Oxyhemoglobin Saturation (SaO2)

The percentage of hemoglobin in the saturated state with oxygen, expressed as a fraction.

Capnogram

A graphical representation of CO2 concentration over time during the breathing cycle.

Clinical Hypoxemia

A condition characterized by an arterial oxygen pressure (PaO2) of less than 60 mmHg.

Mainstream Capnography

A method of measuring CO2 that is performed directly in the airway, often requiring intubation.

Side-stream Capnography

A method of measuring CO2 using a sampling tube connected to the airway, which can underestimate CO2 due to dilution with room air.