What Researchers Did
Researchers tested how accurately a device called the EMMA capnometer measures carbon dioxide levels in both normal and high-pressure hyperbaric environments.
What They Found
At normal pressure (101 kPa), the EMMA capnometer measured carbon dioxide lower than expected by an average of 2.5 mmHg. Under hyperbaric conditions, the device functioned up to 281 kPa but over-read carbon dioxide levels at pressures above 141 kPa. Despite increased variance at therapeutic pressures, a consistent linear relationship was observed between expected and measured carbon dioxide.
Canadian Relevance
No direct Canadian connection identified.
Study Limitations
The study noted that the device over-read carbon dioxide levels at higher pressures and showed increased variability in the therapeutic range for hyperbaric treatments, requiring careful interpretation of its readings.