Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) Practice Test

Which device is specifically used to measure carbon dioxide levels in exhaled air?

1. Pulse oximeter

2. Capnography device

3. CO-oximetry device

4. Colorimetric capnometry equipment

The correct answer is: Capnography device

The capnography device is specifically designed to measure carbon dioxide levels in exhaled air, providing a real-time analysis of the patient's ventilation status. This device works by obtaining a sample of the exhaled air and utilizes infrared light to detect the concentration of CO2 molecules, enabling healthcare providers to assess a patient’s respiratory function and overall metabolic state. In emergency medical situations, monitoring CO2 levels can be crucial for managing conditions such as respiratory distress, confirming tracheal intubation, and assessing the effectiveness of CPR. By measuring the end-tidal CO2 levels, which reflect the carbon dioxide concentration at the end of exhalation, clinicians can gain insights into a patient's ventilation and perfusion status. Other devices mentioned have different specific purposes. For instance, a pulse oximeter measures oxygen saturation but does not provide information about carbon dioxide levels. CO-oximetry devices analyze blood samples to determine multiple forms of hemoglobin and assess carboxyhemoglobin and methemoglobin levels, which are relevant for blood gas analysis but not specifically for exhaled air. Colorimetric capnometry equipment provides a less precise measurement of CO2 and is generally used in simpler, immediate assessments rather than continuous monitoring.