In which of the following situations is a significant amount of carboxyhemoglobin most likely to be present? A) A patient who is being treated with nitrites for cyanide poisoning B) A patient with COPD who is short of breath with an SpO₂ of 90 percent C) A patient found unresponsive in an apartment in which there is a gas furnace D) A patient who inhaled anhydrous ammonia fumes

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Carbon monoxide (CO) is produced by the incomplete combustion of fuels such as gasoline, natural gas, propane, and wood. When this gas is inhaled, it binds with hemoglobin in the blood, forming carboxyhemoglobin, which reduces the amount of oxygen that can be transported in the blood. In the scenario described in option C, the patient was found unresponsive in an apartment with a gas furnace, which suggests that the patient may have been exposed to CO. Therefore, a significant amount of carboxyhemoglobin is most likely to be present in this patient. Option A is incorrect because nitrites are used to treat cyanide poisoning, not CO poisoning. Option B is incorrect because while patients with COPD may have impaired gas exchange, this does not necessarily reflect a high level of carboxyhemoglobin. Option D is incorrect because anhydrous ammonia exposure does not produce CO.

In Which of the Following Situations Is a Significant Amount