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Carbon monoxide poisoning — ABEM Board MCQ

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ModeratePulmonary emergenciesCarbon monoxide poisoningABEM Board

A 35-year-old woman arrives with headache, nausea, and dizziness after using a generator indoors. Triage acuity is ESI 2; BP 118/70 mm Hg, HR 104/min, SpO2 reads 99% on pulse oximetry. Her child has similar symptoms. Exam shows confusion without focal deficits. Which of the following is the most likely diagnosis?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: A — Carbon monoxide poisoning

Indoor combustion exposure with multiple symptomatic patients and normal pulse oximetry is classic for carbon monoxide poisoning.

Reference: ACEP Carbon Monoxide Poisoning clinical policy; CDC CO guidance