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Smoke inhalation carbon monoxide exposure — DipIMC MCQ

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ModerateEnvironmental MedicineSmoke inhalation carbon monoxide exposureDipIMC

A 28-year-old firefighter is dizzy and nauseated after interior firefighting. He has soot around the nose, SpO2 100% on pulse oximetry, pulse 118/min and mild confusion. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

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

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Correct answer: AHigh-flow oxygen by non-rebreather mask

Carbon monoxide poisoning can give falsely reassuring pulse oximetry readings, so high-flow oxygen is indicated when exposure and symptoms fit. Salbutamol may help bronchospasm but is not an antidote. Confusion is a concerning feature requiring assessment and possible hyperbaric advice.

Reference: JRCALC Guidelines; TOXBASE carbon monoxide guidance