The capnograph image depicts spontaneous respiration. To understand how a capnograph illustrates spontaneous respiration, let's consider the following explanation:
A capnograph is a graphical display representing the concentration of CO2 in exhaled air over time, which helps in assessing a patient's ventilatory status. The waveform in spontaneous respiration typically shows a sequence of cycles with distinct phases:
Phase I: The baseline where inspired air is free of CO2.
Phase II: Rapid rise as CO2-rich alveolar air is exhaled.
Phase III: A plateau representing exhalation of alveolar gases.
Phase 0: The rapid drop to baseline indicates the start of inspiration.
During spontaneous respiration, the waveform exhibits characteristic cycles where these phases are clearly present. Changes in the pattern or regularity may indicate different conditions like cardiac oscillations or impaired ventilation. However, in the described scenario, spontaneous respiration is identified by the regular rise and fall pattern as depicted in the image.
