1. A medical device that measures the concentration of carbon dioxide in exhaled breath, used to monitor respiratory function during anesthesia and critical care.
Usage: medical/clinical term; also called end-tidal CO₂ monitor or ETCO₂ monitor

Examples

• The anesthesiologist checked the capnometer to ensure the patient's carbon dioxide levels remained stable during surgery.
• A capnometer is essential equipment in the operating room for monitoring ventilation.
• The capnometer displayed a sudden drop in CO₂, alerting the medical team to a potential breathing problem.
• Paramedics use a portable capnometer to verify proper endotracheal tube placement in emergency situations.
• The intensive care unit relies on continuous capnometer readings to assess patient respiratory status.