Which device is used to detect exhaled carbon dioxide after intubation?

• A. CO2 detector device
• B. Pulse oximeter
• C. Capnography mask
• D. Blood gas analyzer

Answer: (A)

Immediately after intubation, you want quick confirmation that the tube is in the trachea by detecting exhaled carbon dioxide. A colorimetric CO2 detector device does exactly this: it responds to CO2 in the breath with a rapid color change, signaling tracheal placement. This is faster and more direct for confirming airway security than other options. A pulse oximeter shows oxygen saturation and doesn’t confirm placement or exhaled CO2. A capnography system provides CO2 data as well, but the specific device used to detect exhaled CO2 right away is the CO2 detector device. A blood gas analyzer requires a blood sample and doesn’t give immediate placement information.