What is the preferred adjunct device for verifying placement of an endotracheal tube in a patient with a perfusing rhythm?

Capnography is the preferred adjunct device for verifying the placement of an endotracheal tube in a patient with a perfusing rhythm because it provides real-time feedback on the presence of carbon dioxide in exhaled air. When an endotracheal tube is correctly placed in the trachea, capnography will show a clear waveform indicating that CO2 is being effectively exhaled, which confirms that ventilation is occurring. This is particularly important as it helps to quickly identify incorrect placements, such as in the esophagus, where no CO2 would be detected.

This method is superior to stethoscope auscultation, which can be subjective and may not effectively differentiate between properly placed ET tubes and those that are misplaced. Visual confirmation with a laryngoscope is also important during the initial placement but does not provide ongoing verification post-intubation. Suctioning is not a verification method but rather a procedure to clear the airway. Thus, capnography stands out as the most reliable means for ongoing confirmation of tube placement in a patient with a perfusing rhythm.