Abstract
Aim: Providing an optimal procedure for carbon monoxide poisoning.
Introduction: Each year there are many cases of carbon monoxide poisoning registered in Poland. Numerous end up with the death of their victims. The intoxication with carbon monoxide is usually accidental. It occurs as a consequence of fires or due to improper operation of heating systems or ventilating ducts. Carbon monoxide is the most dangerous gas which constitutes a potential cause of deadly poisoning. Carbon monoxide is odourless, colourless, acrid and extremely dangerous, because of its imperceptibility. When the level of CO in the air increases, the gas connects with hemoglobin, myoglobin and cytochrome oxidase and displaces oxygen. Carbon monoxide properties, such as quick and permanent connection to hemoglobin cause severe hypoxia of internal organs, especially, central nervous system and heart. The lack of oxygen transport by red blood cells results in the hypoxia of organs and issues. Apart from causes and symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning and the mechanism of its toxicity, this paper also presents an algorithm of rescue proceedings, with particular attention drawn to the importance of early oxygen therapy. Fresh air should be delivered to the conscious victim of CO poisoning, BTLS should be performed and a rescuer should also deal with life threatening injuries. Oxygen therapy, recovery position and control of life parameters should be applied in case when an unconscious victim is normally breathing. If he or she does not breathe, the rescuer should initiate life supporting procedures presented in Guidelines of European Resuscitation Council. The lack of typical symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning often leads to a wrong diagnosis and results in inappropriate treatment of CO poisoning victims.
Methodology: An analysis of publications, documents and statistics, opinion research with the use of an open survey.
Conclusions: 1. Carbon monoxide can be a cause of very dangerous poisoning. 2. The lack of typical symptoms may result in a wrong diagnosis and treatment of carbon monoxide poisoning. 3. Carbon monoxide poisoning should be taken into account as a potential diagnosis for every fire victim. 4. Every rescuer should be trained in diagnosing and treating carbon monoxide poisoning victim.
Keywords: carbon monoxide, poisoning, fire, oxygen therapy, rescuer, unconscious, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation
Type of article: review article