Capnography trends exhaled carbon dioxide, respiratory pattern, and respiratory rate, helping detect opioid-related hypoventilation when supplemental oxygen may delay a fall in oxygen saturation. It complements rather than replaces pulse oximetry, level-of-consciousness assessment, and clinical evaluation. It does not measure opioid dose, arterial oxygen concentration, or blood pressure.
In-depth explanation
Clinical reasoning summary
Supplemental oxygen can keep SpO2 deceptively stable while ventilation declines. Capnography provides a continuous trend of exhaled carbon dioxide and respiratory rate, but it must be interpreted together with oxygen saturation, sedation level, and bedside assessment.
For study reference only. Always follow current clinical guidelines and your institution’s protocols.