Diagnosing carbon monoxide poisoning in the emergency room starts with measuring carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels. If the patient arrived by ambulance, oxygen treatment likely began at the scene and continued during transport. This early oxygen therapy is important, but it also lowers COHb levels, which must be considered when interpreting results. How Carbon Monoxide Exposure Is Measured There are two common ways to measure carbon monoxide exposure. The first and quickest method is the use of...

This past holiday season, I was reminded of the responsibility HVAC contractors have, not only in installing and maintaining heating systems but also in ensuring their customers have working carbon monoxide alarms to stay safe. One of my trusted employees, Jayne, has been assisting the elderly neighbors who live next door to her for years. Sadly, a week ago the husband died. His 97-year-old widow has been struggling with getting things ready for the funeral and Jayne volunteered to help. The...

By Attorney Gordon Johnson The National Carbon Monoxide Awareness Association (NCOAA) is advocating for all emergency responders to wear personal protective carbon monoxide (CO) alarms when on duty. Protecting responders from CO exposure is critically important. But the value of these personal devices extends far beyond just safeguarding the wearer—they can provide crucial early warning that helps identify CO exposure in patients or environments, preventing tragic outcomes. The Silent...