ENGS 89/90 Reports
Year of Graduation
2025
Sponsor
Christopher A. Yen, M.D.
Project Advisor
Kimberley Samkoe
Instructor
Solomon Diamond
Document Type
Report
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
End tidal Carbon Dioxide (EtCO2) monitoring is the gold standard to verify correct placement of advanced airway devices (endotracheal and supraglottic) and to guide patient ventilation (respiratory rate and tidal volume). Colorimetric EtCO2 is utilized in medical settings where detailed continuous, quantitative EtCO2 is unavailable (e.g., out of the operating room and ICU hospital environments, austere environments). This tool, however, is often binary (showing CO2 as present or absent) and is not utilized continuously, falling short to indicate whether the patient is hyperventilated or hypoventilated or the airway device has dislodged. This project created a “good enough technology” with a 4-level colorimetric EtCO2 monitor that is integrated into an airway device to prove correct positioning of the airway and, as opposed to current colorimetric EtCO2 detectors, help guide ventilation by showing EtCO2 levels below 5mmHg, between 5-35mmHg, between 35-45mmHg, and above 45mmHg. This technology does not require electricity, is durable, and is less expensive in order to expand access for use (e.g. high volume military use in austere settings, resource-limited countries that cannot afford more technologically advanced monitors). Critical technical elements of this project include analytical chemistry that underpins the color change reactions, and fluidics that ensures optimal interactions between airflow and the device.
Dartmouth Digital Commons Citation
Gandhi, Achla; Barry, Hayden; Yuan, Zihao; and Dodge, James, "Novel End-Tidal Carbon Dioxide Monitoring Device" (2025). ENGS 89/90 Reports. 89.
https://digitalcommons.dartmouth.edu/engs89_90/89
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