Emergency Medical Services professionals play an essential role in responding to incidents that put people’s health and safety at risk. Often, they encounter patients who’ve been exposed to lethal gases or chemicals, like carbon monoxide (CO). Carbon Monoxide poisoning can result in a life-threatening condition if not immediately treated. That's why EMS professionals must always be armed with the knowledge and skills to recognize and manage this health issue. In this blog post, we will dive into the ins and outs of Carbon Monoxide poisoning, including its effects on the body, how to recognize exposure, its signs and symptoms, and finally, how to treat it.
Carbon monoxide (CO) is a silent killer. It is a poisonous gas without color, taste, or smell that’s formed by the incomplete burning of fuels that contain carbon. Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when CO gas is inhaled into the body, and it combines with hemoglobin, a protein found in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. When CO binds with hemoglobin, it forms carboxyhemoglobin, which prevents the body from getting the oxygen it needs. Examples of sources of CO include gas stoves, fires, car engines, and any other device that burns gas, charcoal, wood, or oil. According to CDC, CO poisoning kills more than 400 people every year in the US, and another 50,000 people end up in the emergency department due to exposure.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning can happen in various settings, including homes, garages, and vehicles, among others. The symptoms may develop suddenly or slowly depending on exposure, concentration levels, and duration of exposure. Early detection and diagnosis play a crucial role in treating a Carbon Monoxide poisoning patient. Therefore, EMS professionals should have a high index of suspicion for this illness, especially when attending to patients exposed to smoke from fires or running engines.
The signs and symptoms of Carbon Monoxide poisoning vary from person to person and depend on the dose and length of exposure. Early symptoms include nausea, headache, dizziness, fatigue, and shortness of breath. As exposure increases, patients can develop chest pain, confusion, impaired vision, seizures, unconsciousness, and even death. Since these symptoms can mimic symptoms of other illnesses, EMS professionals must take exposure history and perform a thorough physical exam to establish a diagnosis.
The most effective way to manage Carbon Monoxide poisoning in EMS is to prevent exposure and provide immediate treatment to those who get exposed. Oxygen therapy is the cornerstone of Carbon Monoxide poisoning treatment and aims to reverse hypoxia. High flow oxygen should be started immediately after assessing the patient's airway to maintain oxygen saturation above 95%. For severe cases, Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) is recommended. HBOT hastens the elimination of CO from the body and reduces the risk of long-term complications.
Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a silent killer that poses great danger to patient's health and safety. As EMS professionals, you should always be alert and vigilant when attending to smoke-exposed and other patients who present with suspicious symptoms. Quick recognition by taking a thorough history, initiating oxygen therapy, and prompt referral for HBOT (if necessary) can save a patient's life.
Carbon monoxide emergencies are a serious matter that can be life-threatening if not handled properly. Fortunately, there are resources available to learn how to effectively recognize and treat them. One such resource is a video which offers helpful, professional, and even fun insights into this critical topic. By watching, you can equip yourself with the skills and knowledge needed to stay safe and protect others from the dangers of carbon monoxide. So why not take a few minutes to check it out and see how it can benefit you?
Diving into the world of emergency response can be exhilarating, daunting, and everything in between. But remember, you're never alone in this journey. To ensure you're equipped with the latest tips, suggestions, and camaraderie, there's no better place to be than with your peers. That's why we invite you to join our Facebook group so wittingly called, After AVPU. It is dedicated to medical first responder knowledge. Here, the exchange of information is limitless, and you'll find discussions that directly address how to polish your skills and learn from others' experiences. Click the link to fly straight into our caring community. Connect with fellow first responders and elevate your skills today!
Knowledge is power. Stay informed, stay prepared, and stay safe.
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