Which device is used to monitor exhaled CO2 continuously?

The device used to monitor exhaled CO2 continuously is the infrared device. Infrared technology is utilized in capnometers, which measure the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled breath. This is achieved through the infrared absorption of CO2, allowing for continuous and non-invasive monitoring of a patient’s ventilation status.

This is particularly useful in clinical settings, such as during anesthesia or in critical care, as it provides real-time data on patient ventilation, helping to guide respiratory management effectively.

Transcutaneous devices typically measure gases like oxygen or carbon dioxide through the skin but are not used solely for continuous monitoring of exhaled CO2. A standard ABG (arterial blood gas) analyzer provides a snapshot of CO2 levels from arterial blood but does not allow for continuous monitoring since it requires blood sampling. Similarly, a point-of-care blood gas analyzer also measures gases like CO2 but provides discrete measurements rather than continuous data.

In summary, the infrared device stands out as the correct choice because it is specifically designed for the continuous monitoring of exhaled carbon dioxide in real-time.