What is the purpose of capnography in monitoring anesthesia?

What is the purpose of capnography in monitoring anesthesia?

• A. To measure heart rate during anesthesia
• B. To detect the presence of anesthetic agents in blood
• C. To indicate ventilation efficacy and anesthesia depth
• D. To monitor the temperature of the animal

Answer: (C)

Capnography is a valuable tool in monitoring anesthesia because it primarily assesses the efficacy of ventilation and provides insights into the depth of anesthesia. By measuring the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled air, capnography allows for real-time evaluation of the animal’s respiratory status. An increase in CO2 levels can indicate hypoventilation, while a significant decrease may suggest hyperventilation or other respiratory issues.

Moreover, the waveform produced by capnography can reveal information about the breathing pattern and indicate whether the animal is adequately ventilating. Changes in the capnogram can also provide clues about the depth of anesthesia; for example, during lighter planes of anesthesia, CO2 levels may vary more in response to respiratory efforts. Therefore, capnography serves as a critical component in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of anesthesia management in food animals.