A patient is found unconscious in a closed room with a running charcoal heater. The pulse oximeter reads 98%, but the patient has headache, confusion and nausea. Which intervention should the nurse prioritise?
Correct answer: A. Administer high-concentration oxygen and arrange urgent transfer
- A. Administer high-concentration oxygen and arrange urgent transfer
- B. Remove oxygen and repeat pulse oximetry after fifteen minutes
- C. Give oral glucose and observe for improvement
- D. Place the patient in a warm room and encourage rest
Explanation
Carbon monoxide can cause serious tissue hypoxia while producing a misleadingly normal pulse oximeter reading. High-concentration oxygen helps remove carbon monoxide from haemoglobin, while observation alone delays definitive care.
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About Critical Care and Emergency Nursing
Covers rapid assessment and stabilisation of patients with airway obstruction, respiratory failure, shock, cardiac arrest, sepsis, poisoning and major electrolyte disturbances. It includes triage, the ABCDE approach, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, ventilator and monitor care, emergency medicines and distinguishing life-threatening deterioration from stable illness.
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