A qualitative evaluation of capnography use in paediatric sedation: perceptions, practice and barriers

We explored perceptions about capnography for procedural sedation and barriers to use in a paediatric emergency department.

Capnography is a sensitive monitor of ventilation and is increasingly being studied in procedural sedation. While benefits have been found, it has not gained wide acceptance for monitoring of children during sedation.

A qualitative exploratory study was performed.

Using a grounded theory approach, physicians and nurses from the paediatric emergency department participated in one-on-one interviews about their experiences with and opinions of capnography. An iterative process of data collection and analysis was used to inductively generate theories and themes until theoretical saturation was achieved.

Five physicians and 12 nurses were interviewed. Themes included: Experiences: Participants felt that procedural sedation is safe and adverse events are rare. Normal capnography readings reassured providers about the adequacy of ventilation. Knowledge: Despite experience with capnography, knowledge and comfort varied. Most participants requested additional education and training. Diffusion of Use: While participants expressed positive opinions about capnography, use for sedation was infrequent. Many participants felt that capnography use increased in other paediatric populations, such as patients with altered mental status, ingestions or head trauma. Barriers: Identified barriers to use included a lack of comfort with or knowledge about equipment, lack of availability of the monitor and cannulas, lack of inclusion of these supplies on a checklist for procedural sedation preparedness, and lack of a policy for use of capnography during sedation.

Capnography use during sedation in the paediatric emergency department is limited despite positive experiences and opinions about this device. Addressing modifiable barriers such as instrument availability, continuing education, and inclusion on a checklist may increase use of capnography during sedation.

Despite the perceived benefits, a broad implementation plan is required to introduce capnography successfully to the paediatric emergency department.