# The nurse reviews a cardiac-arrest record for an adult with an advanced airway. Click the check at which the sharpest improvement in capnography still did not justify withholding chest compressions after the brief pulse assessment.

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=581200&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Physiological Adaptation  
> category: PA

## Question

The nurse reviews a cardiac-arrest record for an adult with an advanced airway. Click the check at which the sharpest improvement in capnography still did not justify withholding chest compressions after the brief pulse assessment.

![](https://mymerci.kr/data/nclex/hotspot/regen_20260908_2350/HSR537.svg)

## Explanation

C shows the largest ETCO2 rise, but the central pulse remains absent, so compressions must resume.

## In-depth explanation

Quick answer
C. C shows the largest ETCO2 rise, but the central pulse remains absent, so compressions must resume.
Why this is the best choice
An abrupt sustained CO2 increase may suggest return of circulation, but it is not proof by itself. At C, the value rises from 10 to 35 mm Hg while the documented pulse remains absent. Do not prolong the check or withhold compressions solely because the monitor looks improved.
Clinical picture
The observations are fictional teaching data. Apply the stated context; the selected feature does not by itself replace a complete bedside assessment.
Memory hook
Treat a CO2 rise as a cue to assess circulation, not as a substitute for that assessment.
Decision rule
Treat a CO2 rise as a cue to assess circulation, not as a substitute for that assessment.
Why the other regions do not fit
A has a low value and no earlier displayed comparison. B improves only slightly, from 8 to 10. D has a confirmed pulse, unlike C. An organized electrical rhythm at C does not establish mechanical circulation.
**Sources**
- Capnography can help identify return of circulation, but must be interpreted with other clinical findings.

## Key concepts

- **Capnography trend does not replace pulse assessment** — Treat a CO2 rise as a cue to assess circulation, not as a substitute for that assessment.
- **Comparison with context** — D has a similar CO2 value, but the pulse finding distinguishes it from C.

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