What does poor capnography readings indicate post-intubation?

Poor capnography readings following intubation typically suggest hypoventilation or complications related to the airway. When a patient has been successfully intubated, you would expect to see consistent and appropriate levels of carbon dioxide (CO2) detected in the exhaled breath. If the readings are low or show significant abnormalities, it may indicate that the patient is not ventilating effectively, which can happen due to inadequate respiratory efforts or an issue with the placement of the tube, such as it being in the esophagus rather than the trachea.

Hypoventilation leads to a buildup of CO2 in the body, causing low readings on a capnometer, while airway complications like a kinked tube or a blocked airway can similarly undermine ventilation, further contributing to poor readings. Monitoring capnography is crucial post-intubation to ensure effective ventilation and proper tube placement, as it has a direct impact on the patient's respiratory status and overall oxygenation.