Carbon monoxide exposure — DipIMC MCQ

Correct answer: E — Remove from exposure and give high-flow oxygen

Explanation lettering: E = shown as A · C = shown as B · D = shown as C · B = shown as D · A = shown as E

A is correct: Pulse oximetry can be falsely reassuring in carbon monoxide poisoning; high-flow oxygen is required. B is less suitable because it does not address the discriminator in the vignette; C is less suitable because it does not address the discriminator in the vignette; D is less suitable because a detailed survey is inappropriate before correcting an immediate threat; E is less suitable because it moves the patient before the decisive threat or destination issue is addressed. The most tempting alternative is therefore suboptimal because it either delays the time-critical pre-hospital intervention or sends the patient to the wrong level of care. The key DipIMC principle is focused cABCDE decision-making with early pre-alert, triage or retrieval escalation when the scene physiology demands it.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; Resuscitation Council UK Special Circumstances; ATACC