Carbon Dioxide (CO2) — ECG/EKG Terminology

Definition: Gas (waste) released by body cells, transported via veins to the heart, and then to the lungs for exhalation.

Key Facts

• Primary metabolic waste gas transported in blood to lungs for elimination.
• Ventilation changes can alter acid-base balance and myocardial excitability.
• Severe CO2 retention can worsen arrhythmia risk and hemodynamics.

ECG Connection: Acid-base disturbances can alter rhythm stability and repolarization patterns.

Why It Matters: Rhythm changes during respiratory decline should trigger urgent escalation.