Disclaimer :
I am out on a limb here... so take this for what it is worth (nothing). I had to do some refreshment reading since I am definitely not current on details and nuances of specialized ET confirmation procedures. Here goes....
- False negative:
Measurement can sometimes be difficult in the cardiac arrest patient because poor systemic perfusion delivers little CO2 to the lungs for exchange. Therefore, false negatives only occur during a low perfusion state, particularly in cardiac arrest patients or those with severe pulmonary edema.
- False positive:
Could result in those with a large amount of air in the esophagus. My guess for what occured in your example last night.
Another thing I came across is the possibility that the tube once confirmed by CO2 detection device in the field, could be inadvertently moved, and the CO2 detection devices do not provide a continuous detection of correct placement.
Will sit tight and wait for you trauma guru's to post....
