What is the initial treatment for a patient with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning?

The initial treatment for a patient with suspected carbon monoxide poisoning is to administer 100% oxygen. This approach is effective because carbon monoxide binds to hemoglobin in red blood cells, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which significantly reduces the blood's ability to carry oxygen. By providing high concentrations of oxygen, the affinity of carbon monoxide for hemoglobin decreases, allowing the carbon monoxide to displace and be eliminated from the body more rapidly. Additionally, the increased oxygen levels help to meet the metabolic needs of tissues that are deprived of oxygen due to the presence of carbon monoxide.

In cases of suspected carbon monoxide exposure, swift action is crucial, making the delivery of oxygen a top priority. Emerging evidence supports the use of hyperbaric oxygen therapy for severe cases, but the immediate response should focus on providing 100% oxygen in a non-hyperbaric setting. This critical intervention helps to mitigate the effects of carbon monoxide poisoning and can significantly improve outcomes for the patient.