Which of the following is a common use for a capnograph in surgery?

A capnograph is specifically designed to measure the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in exhaled air, making it an essential tool in maintaining patient safety during surgery and anesthesia. Monitoring exhaled CO2 levels provides crucial information about a patient's respiratory status, particularly in terms of ventilation efficiency. By continuously displaying CO2 levels, the capnograph allows healthcare providers to detect respiratory depression or inadequate ventilation, which may necessitate immediate clinical intervention.

Understanding the significance of maintaining proper CO2 levels is vital, as elevated or low exhaled CO2 can indicate different pathophysiological states—such as hypoventilation or hyperventilation—which may affect a patient’s overall well-being during surgical procedures. This focus on CO2 levels distinguishes this option from others, which involve monitoring different physiological parameters not directly related to the functions of a capnograph.