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Rescue pathway

No or low EtCO₂ waveform

No waveform is a crisis until proven otherwise.

Immediate actions

  • Assume tube/circulation/equipment problem until proven otherwise.
  • Reconfirm tube with direct visualization if needed.
  • Check capnography connection, circuit, and monitor.
  • If in arrest/low-flow state, interpret EtCO₂ in resuscitation context.

Pitfalls

  • Trusting “I saw it pass” when waveform is absent.
  • Ignoring low perfusion/cardiac arrest context.
  • Missing disconnected sampling line or failed circuit.