A clinical nurse specialist assesses the carbon monoxide level of a patient following a burn injury and notes that the level is 43%. Based on this level, which finding would the nurse expect to observe during the assessment of the patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

During the assessment, a nurse would expect to observe tachycardia and tachypnea if the carbon monoxide level is between 41% - 50%. A level between 5 to 10% would cause impaired visual acuity; 11 to 20% flushing and headache; 21 to 30% nausea and impaired dexterity; 31 to 40% vomiting, dizziness, and syncope; and greater than 50% coma and death.

A Clinical Nurse Specialist Assesses the Carbon Monoxide Level of a Patient