The use of end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) measurement to guide management of cardiac arrest: A systematic review

Based upon existing evidence, ETCO2 levels do seem to provide limited prognostic information for patients who have experienced cardiac arrest. Given the many potential confounders that can influence initial ETCO2 levels, extreme or trending values may be more useful than static mid-range levels. Additional well-designed studies are needed to define optimal timing for the measurement of ETCO2 for prognostic purposes.