Nellcor PEDICAP Pediatric Colorimetric CO₂ Detector (1-15 kg)

A disposable colorimetric carbon dioxide detection device that attaches directly to pediatric endotracheal tubes to verify proper tube placement. The detector contains a pH-sensitive chemical indicator that changes color in response to exhaled CO₂—from purple (no CO₂) to yellow (CO₂ present). Designed specifically for infants and children weighing 1-15 kg, this device provides immediate visual confirmation of correct intubation within six breaths.

Common humanitarian uses:

• Emergency intubation verification in pediatric trauma or respiratory distress
• Confirmation of endotracheal tube placement during resuscitation
• Assessment of CPR effectiveness by detecting return of spontaneous circulation
• Transport verification to ensure tube remains properly positioned during patient transfer
• Field hospital emergency departments with limited capnography equipment
• Mass casualty incidents requiring rapid pediatric airway assessment

Key information:

• Patient weight range: 1 kg to 15 kg (pediatric/infant use only)
• Usage duration: Up to 2 hours of continuous use per device
• Color change indicator: Purple (no CO₂) → Yellow (CO₂ present) → Tan (exhausted)
• Response time: Breath-by-breath visual feedback, interpret after 6 breaths minimum
• Connector size: Standard 15mm ISO connector fits all pediatric endotracheal tubes
• Material: Latex-free construction
• Single-use only: Cannot be cleaned, sterilized, or reused
• Storage requirements: Room temperature in original packaging until use
• Shelf life: Check expiration date on package
• Requires prescription: Yes - used only by trained healthcare personnel

Important safety notes:

• Not a substitute for clinical assessment: Always combine with physical examination, chest rise observation, auscultation, and vital signs monitoring
• Weight limit critical: Do not use in patients over 15 kg due to increased airway resistance from the device
• Interpret after 6 breaths: Reading before six breaths may give false results; patience is essential during emergency situations
• Color perception required: Cannot be interpreted by individuals with blue-yellow color blindness
• False positives possible: Detector responds to any CO₂ source including carbonated beverages, antacids, or esophageal intubation if gastric CO₂ is present
• Color change means CO₂ present, not correct placement: Yellow color confirms CO₂ detection but does not guarantee proper tracheal placement; bronchial intubation or pharyngeal placement may still produce CO₂

How to Use: Before attaching to the endotracheal tube, verify the detector's initial purple color matches the "CHECK" reference ring around the window. If the indicator is darker than the CHECK color, discard the device. Attach between the endotracheal tube and ventilation bag/circuit. Observe color changes with each breath: purple indicates no CO₂ (potential esophageal intubation), yellow indicates CO₂ present (likely correct placement), and tan indicates device exhaustion (replace immediately). Always confirm placement with additional clinical methods.

Alternative names: CO₂ detector, carbon dioxide detector, colorimetric capnometer, EtCO₂ detector, end-tidal CO₂ detector, intubation verification device, PEDICAP, Easy Cap (competitor brand), détecteur colorimétrique de CO₂ (French), detector colorimétrico de CO₂ (Spanish)

⚠ Disclaimer: This description is for inventory identification only. This device must only be used by trained healthcare professionals qualified in endotracheal intubation. Always follow manufacturer's Instructions for Use and combine with multiple verification methods. Check local regulations regarding distribution and use.