EtCO2
Medical abbreviation · Anesthesia
| Stands for | End-tidal carbon dioxide |
|---|---|
| Categories | Medical |
EtCO2 stands for End-tidal carbon dioxide, an anesthesia abbreviation.
Concentration or partial pressure of carbon dioxide at the end of each exhalation, measured continuously by capnography, normally about 35 to 45 mmHg. It confirms tracheal tube placement, tracks ventilation and reflects circulation during cardiac arrest.
Example: EtCO2 waveform present after intubation; values 38 to 40.
Usage notes
ASA monitoring standards require continuous capnography during general anesthesia and during moderate or deep sedation. During CPR an EtCO2 persistently below about 10 mmHg suggests poor compressions or a low chance of survival, while a sudden rise can signal return of spontaneous circulation. Also written ETCO2 or PETCO2.
Related abbreviations
More anesthesia abbreviations
- BIS – Bispectral index
- CICO – Can't intubate, can't oxygenate
- CSE – Combined spinal-epidural
- DL – Direct laryngoscopy
- eFONA – Emergency front-of-neck access
- ESP – Erector spinae plane (block)
- ETT – Endotracheal tube
- FOI – Fiberoptic intubation
- GA – General anesthesia
- GETA – General endotracheal anesthesia
- ISB – Interscalene brachial plexus block
- LA – Local anesthesia (local anesthetic)
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This entry is for general education and is not medical advice. Abbreviation use varies between institutions; always confirm in context.