What is the primary function of a capnograph during sedation?

The primary function of a capnograph during sedation is to monitor carbon dioxide levels in exhaled breath. This monitoring is crucial because it provides real-time feedback on a patient's ventilation status, indicating how well carbon dioxide is being expelled from the body during the respiratory cycle.

Adequate carbon dioxide levels are essential for maintaining normal physiological function, and deviations can signal potential respiratory complications. For instance, if the capnograph shows elevated levels of carbon dioxide, it may indicate hypoventilation, where the patient is not breathing deeply or often enough to remove carbon dioxide effectively. Conversely, low levels could suggest hyperventilation or other issues.

This capability of the capnograph makes it an invaluable tool in sedation monitoring, as it helps healthcare providers ensure that patients are maintaining proper respiratory function throughout the procedure. The other options, while relevant in different contexts, do not relate to the primary role of a capnograph.