Do now
- Look at waveform EtCO₂, not just the numeric value.
- Bag if unstable and verify chest rise, tube depth, circuit, oxygen source, and cuff seal.
Vent control
Low volume: EtCO₂ / oxygenation check
Do not let a low-volume alarm distract from confirming the airway.
Clinical review / use limits
Authored by: Airway of the Month education team. Last reviewed: July 2026. Audience: EM learners, faculty, EMS, RT, simulation educators, and airway teams.
This is an educational cognitive-aid scaffold, not a bedside order set. Verify medications, ventilator changes, pediatric dosing, and procedures against local ED, ICU, anesthesia, pharmacy, RT, EMS, and pediatric policies.
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