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Carbon monoxide mass exposure — DipIMC MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental MedicineCarbon monoxide mass exposureDipIMC

A 58-year-old man at a beach barbecue has confusion, weakness and nausea. Several others have similar symptoms around a charcoal heater used inside a tent. What is the triage category?

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Correct answer: E — Treat the group as exposed casualties and prioritise removal from the contaminated environment

Multiple casualties with headache, nausea or confusion around combustion in an enclosed space suggests carbon monoxide exposure. The immediate triage action is removal from the hazardous environment and oxygen for symptomatic patients. Pulse oximetry can be falsely reassuring. The pearl is that clusters of vague symptoms can be the clue to environmental poisoning.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines 2025; UKHSA Carbon Monoxide guidance