An improved endotracheal tube system and method of use is provided. The improved endotracheal tube system includes a standard endotracheal tube, an adapter with a first tube that may be positioned within an endotracheal tube and a second tube adapted for attachment to a bag-valve mask. The adapter has a CO.sub.2 detector within it. The improved endotracheal tube system may also have a stylet positioned within the endotracheal tube and the adapter. The stylet may have a handle attached to it for easy removal from the adapter.