[Carbon monoxide poisoning, treatment and orientation]

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Toxicology
• Nursing

Background:

• Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas responsible for thousands of poisonings yearly.
• CO poisoning symptoms are often non-specific, leading to delayed diagnosis and potentially severe neurological damage or death.
• Collective poisonings are common, highlighting the need for rapid identification and intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To emphasize the critical role of (pre-)hospital emergency nurses in managing carbon monoxide poisoning cases.
• To outline the essential nursing responsibilities in the assessment, treatment, and monitoring of CO poisoning victims.
• To highlight the importance of organized patient pathways and triage for effective care.

Main Methods:

• The abstract describes the role and responsibilities of emergency nurses in managing CO poisoning.
• It outlines the process of patient assessment, treatment, monitoring, and triage.
• It emphasizes the importance of a structured care pathway, including referral to hyperbaric facilities when necessary.

Main Results:

• Emergency nurses are vital in the initial management of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Effective nursing care involves accurate assessment, prompt treatment, and continuous monitoring.
• Organized triage and referral pathways improve patient outcomes, especially for severe cases.

Conclusions:

• The emergency nurse is central to the effective management of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• A coordinated approach ensures patients receive appropriate and timely care.
• Directing severe cases to specialized facilities like hyperbaric units is essential for optimal recovery.