Single breath end-tidal PCO2 measurement during high frequency jet ventilation in critical care patients.

The relationship between arterial and end-tidal carbon dioxide tensions following a single large breath was investigated in seven critically ill patients receiving high frequency jet ventilation. There was a close correlation (r = 0.989) between arterial and end-tidal carbon dioxide tensions over a wide range (3.29-8.95 kPa). Measurement of the end-tidal carbon dioxide tension following a single large breath may be useful in monitoring the efficiency of high frequency jet ventilation in the elimination of carbon dioxide.