Which device monitors CPR quality?

Which device monitors CPR quality?

• A. Quantitative waveform capnography
• B. ECG
• C. Stethoscope
• D. Pulse oximeter

Answer: (A)

Monitoring CPR quality relies on real-time feedback about how effectively blood is being circulated during compressions. End-tidal CO2 is measured with quantitative waveform capnography, and it directly reflects perfusion generated by chest compressions. When compressions are deep and consistent, more CO2 is delivered to the lungs, so the end-tidal CO2 rises. If compressions are shallow or interrupted, the end-tidal CO2 falls. A rising or adequate end-tidal CO2, and a visible waveform, provides immediate evidence that circulation is moving CO2 to the lungs, and a sudden rise can indicate return of spontaneous circulation. This makes capnography the best tool for guiding and confirming CPR quality in real time. ECG shows heart rhythm and guides defibrillation decisions but doesn’t measure how well the chest compressions are circulating blood. A stethoscope can help assess breath or heart sounds but doesn’t give a reliable, quantitative readout of CPR effectiveness. A pulse oximeter indicates oxygenation but is a lagging, indirect measure during CPR and isn’t as immediate or specific for chest compression quality as capnography.

Monitoring CPR quality relies on real-time feedback about how effectively blood is being circulated during compressions. End-tidal CO2 is measured with quantitative waveform capnography, and it directly reflects perfusion generated by chest compressions. When compressions are deep and consistent, more CO2 is delivered to the lungs, so the end-tidal CO2 rises. If compressions are shallow or interrupted, the end-tidal CO2 falls. A rising or adequate end-tidal CO2, and a visible waveform, provides immediate evidence that circulation is moving CO2 to the lungs, and a sudden rise can indicate return of spontaneous circulation. This makes capnography the best tool for guiding and confirming CPR quality in real time.

ECG shows heart rhythm and guides defibrillation decisions but doesn’t measure how well the chest compressions are circulating blood. A stethoscope can help assess breath or heart sounds but doesn’t give a reliable, quantitative readout of CPR effectiveness. A pulse oximeter indicates oxygenation but is a lagging, indirect measure during CPR and isn’t as immediate or specific for chest compression quality as capnography.