What is the role of capnography in airway management?

Capnography plays a crucial role in airway management by indicating the ventilation status of a patient through the measurement of carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in exhaled air. This tool allows healthcare providers to assess how effectively a patient is ventilating. During the process of respiration, CO2 is produced by the body's metabolism, transported by the bloodstream to the lungs, and is then exhaled. By measuring the concentration of CO2 in the exhaled air, capnography provides real-time feedback on the adequacy of ventilation; elevated levels can suggest hypoventilation, while decreased levels may indicate hyperventilation. This information is vital for confirming proper endotracheal tube placement and monitoring a patient’s ventilation status during sedation, intubation, or in other scenarios where airway management is critical.

The other options do not encompass the primary function and importance of capnography in airway management. Monitoring heart rate, assessing oxygen saturation, and evaluating lung expansion and contraction are important aspects of overall patient care but do not relate directly to the specific role of capnography in monitoring CO2 levels and ventilation efficiency.