Principles of first aid and treatment of acute carbon monoxide poisoning

Acute carbon monoxide poisoning is a life-threatening poisoning state caused by the body inhaling too much carbon monoxide in an environment filled with carbon monoxide, which leads to hypoxia and asphyxiation of the cells of various tissues throughout the body. The poisoned person can appear cherry red lips and cheeks, headache, dizziness, palpitations, and can appear coma, etc. On-site resuscitation should be done in a timely manner by opening windows and ventilation, transferring the patient to fresh air and air circulation in a timely manner, and getting out of the poisoning scene. Promptly consult a hospital and monitor changes in vital signs, such as respiration, pulse, blood pressure, heartbeat, etc. Monitor oxygen saturation, as well as test blood count and carboxyhemoglobin level. Inhale medium to high flow rate of, for example, 3 to 6 liters per minute of pure oxygen as soon as possible and in a timely manner. Hyperbaric oxygen chamber therapy, where three atmospheres of pure oxygen are inhaled, can be performed to shorten the course of the disease as quickly as possible. The carbon monoxide in carboxyhemoglobin is separated out and fully combined with oxygen to reduce and eliminate the toxic state of cellular tissues. Protecting brain cells can be done by giving energy combinations, and also by activating brain cells with intravenous drips of brain tissue fluid and cytophosphorylcholine. If cerebral edema is present, ice packs are needed to maintain the body temperature at 32°C, especially with an ice cap on the head. If necessary, tachyphylaxis and mannitol are given to reduce cerebral edema. Monitor oxygen saturation and carboxyhemoglobin concentration, as well as liver and kidney function, electrolytes, and changes in vital signs, and adjust the treatment plan at any time.