Vital signs and measures
EtCO₂
end-tidal carbon dioxide
The CO₂ concentration at the end of an exhaled breath, measured by capnography. Used to confirm an airway is in the trachea and to track ventilation.
How it gets tested
Appears in airway and resuscitation items as the measurement that confirms tube placement, and in sedation items as the earliest sign of under-breathing.
Quick check: EtCO₂
One question. Pick an answer to see the explanation.
What does etco₂ mean?
Related terms
Sitting the TEAS or the HESI A2? Find out what you actually know.
Free practice questions for every section of both exams, with an explanation after each answer. No account, no paywall.
Back to the full abbreviation list
Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or authorized by ATI (Assessment Technologies Institute), Elsevier, or any nursing program. TEAS® and HESI® are trademarks of their respective owners. Practice questions here are original study material, not the official exams.