[The guideline 'Treatment of acute carbon-monoxide poisoning' from doctors in clinics with a tank for hyperbaric ventilation].

The guideline 'Treatment of acute carbon-monoxide poisoning' from doctors in clinics with a tank for hyperbaric ventilation Carbon-monoxide (CO) poisoning is a potentially life-threatening emergency. Its prognosis is determined by prompt recognition and treatment. CO is toxic because it binds to haemoglobin (Hb), thus impairing oxygen transport and causing tissue hypoxia. The most important symptoms are headache and altered consciousness, ranging from somnolence to coma. The diagnosis is based on a history ofCO exposure combined with an elevated carboxyhaemoglobin (HbCO) level in the blood. On the basis of the available literature, it is recommended that patients with a HbCO level > or = 10% should always be treated. In patients requiring artificial ventilation, 100% oxygen for 8 hours is recommended. In pregnant women and in patients who are or have been comatose, hyperbaric oxygen can be considered. In all other symptomatic patients, use of a non-rebreathing mask with 100% oxygen for 8 hours is recommended.