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Updated: Nov 4, 2025

Expired CO2 Measurement in Intubated or Spontaneously Breathing Patients from the Emergency Department
Published on: January 29, 2011
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
James A Chenoweth1, Timothy E Albertson2, Matthew R Greer3
1Department of Emergency Medicine, University of California - Davis, School of Medicine, 4150 V Street, PSSB Suite 2100, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA; Department of Internal Medicine, Mather VA Medical Center, 10535 Hospital Way, Mather, CA 95655, USA.
Abstract:
Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, highly toxic gas primarily produced through the incomplete combustion of organic material. Carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin and other heme molecules, causing tissue hypoxia and oxidative stress. Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning can vary from a mild headache to critical illness, which can make diagnosis difficult. When there is concern for possible carbon monoxide poisoning, the diagnosis can be made via blood co-oximetry. The primary treatment for patients with carbon monoxide poisoning is supplemental oxygen, usually delivered via a nonrebreather mask. Hyperbaric oxygen can also be used, but the exact indications are controversial.
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