Capnography Rising Baseline — FRCA Final MCQ

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ModerateAnaesthetic Equipment & SafetyCapnography Rising BaselineFRCA Final

Capnography: gradually rising baseline CO2 (Phase 0 not returning to zero). Most likely cause?

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Correct answer: D — Rebreathing due to exhausted absorbent

Rising baseline (Phase 0 ≠ zero) = inspired CO2 not fully removed = rebreathing. In circle: exhausted absorbent. Also: incompetent inspiratory valve, inadequate FGF in Mapleson. Bronchospasm = upsloping Phase III (different pattern).

Reference: RCOA – 2020 – Capnography interpretation