The target end-tidal CO2 during CPR in a pediatric patient is typically around 35 mmHg. This value is significant as it helps to gauge the effectiveness of chest compressions and overall perfusion during resuscitation efforts.
Measuring the end-tidal CO2 enables healthcare providers to assess how well the patient’s lungs are functioning in terms of eliminating carbon dioxide—a byproduct of cellular metabolism. During effective CPR, a higher end-tidal CO2 level suggests that blood is being circulated to the lungs and that the heart and lungs are engaged in gas exchange, thereby improving the chances of successful resuscitation.
A target of 35 mmHg is ideal because it reflects the balance between adequate ventilation and circulation. Lower levels can indicate poor perfusion, inadequate ventilation, or ineffective compressions, while higher levels may suggest airway obstruction or hyperventilation, which can occur if too much air is being pushed into the lungs during CPR. Hence, aiming for around 35 mmHg provides a practical metric for assessing the quality of CPR being performed on pediatric patients.