Colorimetric exhaled CO2 detector device fits between the endotracheal tube and the breathing circuit and changes color (from purple to yellow) with detection of exhaled CO2
- Purple: No exhaled CO2 detected
- Yellow: Exhaled CO2 detected
“Gold is good” is a useful way to remember the desired color change.
Test for 6 consecutive breaths after intubation to wash out CO2 present in the stomach after bag-mask ventilation.
Note: Exhaled CO2 will not detect or rule out intubation of mainstem bronchus. This can be detected on auscultation, with a chest xray or a fiberoptic scope.
