Predicting Cardiac Arrest Outcomes with End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide Levels
Author Information
Author(s): Kolar Miran, Križmarić Miljenko, Klemen Petra, Grmec Štefek
Primary Institution: University of Maribor
Hypothesis
An end-tidal carbon dioxide level of 1.9 kPa (14.3 mmHg) or more after 20 minutes of standard advanced cardiac life support would predict restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC).
Conclusion
End-tidal carbon dioxide levels of more than 1.9 kPa (14.3 mmHg) after 20 minutes may be used to predict ROSC with accuracy.
Supporting Evidence
- End-tidal carbon dioxide values of 1.9 kPa (14.3 mmHg) or less discriminated between patients with and without ROSC.
- The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were all 100% for predicting ROSC.
- Initial PetCO2 was higher in patients who survived and in those who achieved ROSC.
Takeaway
Doctors can check a special gas level in the breath of patients who have heart problems to see if they might get better after treatment.
Methodology
This is a prospective, observational study of 737 cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest where end-tidal carbon dioxide levels were measured.
Limitations
The study only included adults over 18 years and excluded those with terminal illness or severe hypothermia.
Participant Demographics
Patients were adults over 18 years old, with a mix of male and female participants.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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