Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) Practice 2026 - Free CPR Practice Questions and Study Tips.

A stable ETCO2 (End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide) reading is a key indicator of successful endotracheal (ET) tube placement. When the ET tube is correctly positioned in the trachea, it allows for proper ventilation of the lungs, leading to effective gas exchange. Elevated levels of ETCO2 in the exhaled air indicate that carbon dioxide is being adequately removed from the bloodstream, reflecting good perfusion and ventilation.

Monitored ETCO2 levels should show a consistent reading within the expected range, typically between 35 and 45 mmHg, which suggests that the ventilated air is reaching the lungs appropriately. If the ETCO2 readings are significantly lower or absent, it may indicate that the tube is not placed correctly in the trachea, possibly in the esophagus, and that the patient is not effectively ventilated.

In contrast, indicators such as increased heart rate could arise from patient stress or other underlying conditions and are not definitively tied to the placement of an ET tube. Similarly, high blood pressure and improved levels of consciousness may reflect a variety of health factors unrelated to respiratory support. Therefore, although they might be observed during treatment, they do not specifically validate the adequacy of ET tube placement as reliably