To help paramedic teams to assess the ventilation status of a patient of both intubated and non-intubated in the pre-hospital setting

Oridion Systems (Oridion) has reported that the Bavarian Red Cross has chosen Microcap portable capnographs for its RTW (Rettungswagen) medical vehicles. The use of capnography can help paramedic teams to assess the ventilation status of a patient as well as alert them to issues that affect respiratory status such as displaced endotracheal tubes, episodes of respiratory depression as well as the status of resuscitative efforts.

Capnography is used by paramedics worldwide to help in their assessment and real-time treatment of both intubated and non-intubated patients in the pre-hospital setting.

The Bavarian Red Cross has tested four different competitive units at four different sites and after a thorough analysis, chose the Oridion Microcap capnography monitor.

The company claims that Microcap monitors are one of the Oridion family of portable monitors employing Microstream capnography technology to provide accurate, continuous monitoring on intubated and non-intubated patients from neonate to adult patients in hospital and pre-hospital environments, including emergency transport.

The ability to accurately monitor CO2 levels in a patient’s breathing is vital for ensuring patient safety – especially in emergency transports. Studies have shown that capnography is an important tool during emergency applications. It has proven far superior in recognising displaced endotracheal tubes when compared to traditional clinical subjective evaluations.

In addition, other studies show that etCO2 levels should be monitored during CPR (Cardiopulmonary resuscitation) and should be regarded as having important prognostic value in predicting the outcome of resuscitative efforts.

Gerry Feldman, president of Oridion Capnography, said: “I am pleased that the Bavarian Red Cross has recognised the importance of CO2 monitoring and selected the Microcap. Its superior Microstream capnography provides accurate monitoring and many other benefits, and most importantly its routine use improves patient safety.”