Inventors:
Carl G. Fehder - Collingswood NJ
Assignee:
Nellcor Incorporated - Hayward CA
International Classification:
C12Q 126, G01N 3122, G01N 33497
Abstract:
A method and apparatus are is disclosed for determining whether respiratory gas is present in a gaseous sample. The sample is brought into contact with an indicator which yields an indication within a diagnostically effective period of time of the presence in the sample of carbon dioxide in concentration of at least 2% while an indication of the presence of carbon dioxide or other trace acidic gas in a sample of ambient air is delayed beyond a predetermined period of time. The method and apparatus of the present invention have particular utility in determining the correct placement of an endotracheal catheter in a patient or in the direction of apnea.