Screening and management of unintentional low-level carbon monoxide exposure in the emergency department

Unintentional carbon monoxide (CO) exposure, sometimes referred to as CO poisoning, is a serious threat to health and can have long-term effects on the neurological and respiratory systems. Patients who have been exposed can present to emergency departments (ED) with non-specific signs and symptoms, which makes it challenging to diagnose. This article describes the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, and ED management of patients with possible or confirmed low-level CO exposure. It is important for emergency nurses to recognise patients with unintentional CO exposure so that treatment is provided and measures taken to prevent further exposure.