Question

A patient is having a procedure where procedural sedation is being administered and capnography is being used. The patient's values have been stable throughout the procedure and then suddenly goes to zero (0). The initial response would be

A) Call a rapid response
B) Check the patient
C) Ensure the equipment is still connected to the patient
D) Both B & C

Answer 1

If capnography readings drop suddenly to zero, the initial response should be checking the patient and ensuring all equipment is connected. Verifying patient identity, procedure consent, and functionality of monitoring equipment is vital. The correct option is D).

Step-by-step explanation:

If capnography shows a sudden drop to zero, the initial response should assess the patient and equipment before calling a rapid response. The first steps would involve:

1. Checking the patient to ensure they are breathing and responsive, as changes in capnography could indicate a serious change in patient status.
2. Ensuring the equipment is still connected, as disconnection or malfunction can also cause a reading of zero.

Before proceeding with more critical actions, it is crucial to assess these fundamentals. In a medical setting, it is essential that prior to the induction of anesthesia, all members of the team should verify the patient's identity, surgical site, procedure, and consent.

It is equally important to ensure the functionality of monitoring equipment, such as the pulse oximeter, and that all members are aware of any known allergies the patient has. Option D) is the correct one.