Carbon monoxide poisoning

Patients should be aware that carbon monoxide poisoning results from breathing high levels of carbon monoxide and can be fatal. It usually results from burning of fuels, poor working condition of gas and furnace appliances, or build-up of gas when appliances are used in a closed environment with no ventilation.

Patients should call emergency services if they or anyone they know in the same environment (e.g., the same room, building, or workplace) experience influenza-like symptoms or shortness of breath, nausea, headache, dizziness, confusion, or fainting, especially if these symptoms are worsening. It is also recommended that windows are opened to improve ventilation and appliances are safely turned off.

Advise all patients who are suitable for discharge about the possibility of delayed neurological complications, and give specific instructions on what to do if these occur.[19]Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Clinical guidance for carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. November 2020 [internet publication]. https://www.cdc.gov/disasters/co_guidance.html ​