Carbon monoxide poisoning — DipIMC MCQ
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Correct answer: A — Remove from exposure and give high-flow oxygen for suspected carbon monoxide poisoning
Carbon monoxide poisoning can produce falsely normal pulse oximetry because standard oximeters cannot distinguish carboxyhaemoglobin reliably. The priority is scene safety, removal from exposure and high-flow oxygen. Keeping patients in the environment risks ongoing poisoning. The pearl is to suspect carbon monoxide when multiple people have headache or confusion in the same building.
Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; UKHSA Carbon Monoxide guidance