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Carbon monoxide poisoning — DipIMC MCQ

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ModerateMedical EmergenciesCarbon monoxide poisoningDipIMC

A family of four are found drowsy in a house with a faulty boiler. Two have headache and vomiting; pulse oximetry reads 99% in the most drowsy patient. What is the most appropriate management?

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

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Correct answer: D — Remove from exposure and give high-flow oxygen to each symptomatic patients

Remove from exposure and give high-flow oxygen to each symptomatic patients is the best answer because pulse oximetry is falsely reassuring in carbon monoxide poisoning and high-flow oxygen is indicated. Give unrestricted crystalloid to normalise blood pressure is less appropriate because over-resuscitation can worsen bleeding when haemorrhage is uncontrolled; Defer treatment until a senior hospital doctor reviews the patient is less appropriate because pre-hospital clinicians must treat immediate threats within scope. Provide reassurance and reassess after transport and Immobilise every joint and delay departure for a detailed examination are also suboptimal because they move attention away from the key pre-hospital priority.. The key DipIMC principle is to treat immediate reversible threats, communicate clearly and move the patient toward the right definitive care.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; UKHSA carbon monoxide guidance