A sudden drop in end-tidal CO2 (PetCO2) toward zero in a ventilated patient most urgently suggests:

A sudden drop in end-tidal CO2 (PetCO2)

Multiple choice — select the best answer

AIncreased metabolic rate
BHypoventilation
CRebreathing
DLoss of airway or circulation (e.g., disconnection or cardiac arrest)

✓ Correct answer: D. Loss of airway or circulation (e.g., disconnection or cardiac arrest) An abrupt fall of PetCO2 to near zero signals no CO2 reaching the detector, typically from circuit disconnection, esophageal tube, or cardiac arrest.

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Topic: Patient Assessment

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A sudden drop in end-tidal CO2 (PetCO2) toward zero in a ventilated patient most urgently suggests:

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