Question

How does the administration of 100 percent oxygen save a patient from carbon monoxide poisoning? Why wouldn’t giving carbon dioxide work?

Short answer

• Administration of oxygen is an effective therapy because of the concentration, oxygen will displace the carbon monoxide from the hemoglobin.

Step-by-step solution

Step 1. Introduction

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when carbon monoxide builds up in bloodstream. When too much carbon monoxide is in the air, the body replaces the oxygen in your red blood cells with carbon monoxide. This can lead to serious tissue damage, or even death.

Step 2. Explanation

• Carbon monoxide has a higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen

• Carbon monoxide will bind to hemoglobin over oxygen

• Administration of oxygen is an effective therapy because of the concentration, oxygen will displace the carbon monoxide from the hemoglobin.