Sensitivity of a disposable end-tidal carbon dioxide detector.

A small disposable carbon dioxide detector that can be used to provide evidence of correct endotracheal tube placement is now commercially available (FEF). The device contains an indicator that changes color when exposed to carbon dioxide. This study measured the lowest concentration of carbon dioxide causing a perceivable color change in the device. Ten volunteers were blinded to the concentrations of carbon dioxide in an airway circuit/lung model, and the minimal concentration of carbon dioxide that caused a perceivable color change was recorded. The mean minimum concentration required for detection of a color change was 0.54% (4.1 mm Hg) and ranged from 0.25 to 0.60% (1.9 to 4.6 mm Hg). We conclude that this device should produce a detectable color change even in patients with low end-tidal carbon dioxide, as might be observed during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.