What follow-up care is necessary for patients who have been treated for carbon monoxide poisoning to monitor for potential long-term effects?

Follow-up care for patients treated for carbon monoxide poisoning should focus on monitoring for potential delayed neurological and cognitive effects, which can manifest days to weeks after exposure. This includes arranging clinical assessments to evaluate neurological function and cognitive status during the weeks following initial treatment.

Patients should be advised to report any new or worsening symptoms such as memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, or motor disturbances promptly. Regular follow-up appointments, either face-to-face or via telephone/video consultations, can facilitate early detection of these delayed effects.

Where neurological symptoms persist or worsen, referral to specialist services such as neurology or rehabilitation may be necessary for further evaluation and management.

Additionally, assessment of the patient’s functional status and support needs should be part of follow-up care to tailor rehabilitation and social support appropriately.

Although the provided context does not include specific NICE guidelines on carbon monoxide poisoning follow-up, these principles align with general best practices for monitoring delayed sequelae of toxic exposures in primary care.