End-Tidal CO2 Monitoring is a non-invasive technique that quantifies the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled air at the conclusion of expiration. This method provides immediate insights into a patient's ventilation status and the efficacy of airway interventions, particularly in emergency medical scenarios. Not to be confused with capnography, which encompasses a broader analysis of CO2 levels throughout the respiratory cycle, end-tidal CO2 monitoring specifically focuses on the final phase of exhalation. This practice is integral within the Incident Command System (ICS) for effective patient assessment and management.
Category context: Patient care, assessment, interventions, triage, and EMS system terms commonly used by firefighter/medics.