Waveform Capnography Compared to Colorimetric Carbon Dioxide Detection During Tracheal Intubation of Critically Ill Adults

Launched by BRIAN DRIVER · Apr 11, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying two methods for confirming the correct placement of a breathing tube in critically ill adults who are experiencing severe respiratory failure. The two methods being compared are waveform capnography, which measures carbon dioxide in the exhaled breath, and colorimetric carbon dioxide detection, which uses a special color-changing device to indicate the presence of carbon dioxide. The goal is to see which method is more effective at ensuring that the breathing tube is placed correctly in the trachea, which is the airway leading to the lungs.

To participate in this trial, patients need to be in an emergency department or intensive care unit and require tracheal intubation, meaning they need assistance with breathing through a tube. They must also be over 18 years old and not be a prisoner. Participants can expect to have their breathing tube placement confirmed using one of the two methods being studied. It’s important to note that this trial is not yet recruiting, so patients won’t be enrolled until the study begins.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patient is located in a participating unit (ED or ICU)
• • 2. Patient is undergoing tracheal intubation.
• • 3. The clinician intends to use an exhaled CO2 detection device to confirm tracheal placement of the tube.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Patient is known to be a prisoner
• • 2. Patient is known to be \< 18 years old
• • 3. A responsible clinician has determined that sole use of either waveform capnography or colorimetric testing is required for optimal care of the patient.