During capnography monitoring of a mechanically ventilated patient, you note that the PETCO2 has dropped to 0 mm Hg. Which of the following is the most likely problem?
a. Ventilator disconnection
b. Tracheal intubation
c. Increased cardiac output
d. Hypoventilation
ANS: A
Table 19-7 differentiates between the causes of high and low PETCO2 readings by the sudden-ness of the change.
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