What to do for gas poisoning
Nov 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
After carbon monoxide poisoning, immediately remove the person from the contaminated environment, maintain airway patency, provide prompt oxygen support, loosen clothing and keep warm, and quickly call emergency services. Prompt first aid can reduce the risk of harm. If severe symptoms such as coma, difficulty breathing, or cyanosis of the lips occur, seek immediate medical attention and inform the doctor about the poisoning.
After carbon monoxide poisoning, it is essential to immediately remove the person from the contaminated environment, maintain an open airway, provide prompt oxygen support, loosen clothing and keep the body warm, and quickly call emergency services. Prompt first aid can reduce the risk of harm. If severe symptoms such as unconsciousness, difficulty breathing, or cyanosis (bluish discoloration) of the lips occur, seek immediate medical attention and inform the doctor about the poisoning.
1. Remove from the poisoned environment: Immediately open windows and doors for ventilation, and swiftly move the patient to a fresh, well-ventilated outdoor area to prevent further inhalation of carbon monoxide. Take care to protect yourself during the transfer to avoid secondary poisoning.
2. Maintain airway patency: Unbutton the patient’s collar and waistband, clear any foreign objects from the mouth and nose. If the patient is unconscious, lay them flat on their back with the head turned to one side to prevent airway obstruction and suffocation caused by vomit.
3. Provide timely oxygen support: If oxygen equipment is available on site, administer oxygen immediately to improve the body's oxygen deficiency and relieve symptoms such as dizziness and fatigue. Ensure proper operation during oxygen administration to prevent leakage.
4. Loosen clothing and keep warm: Remove tight-fitting clothes from the patient and cover their body with clothing or a blanket to maintain stable body temperature and prevent worsening of the condition due to hypothermia. Avoid moving the patient’s limbs unnecessarily to prevent accidental injury.
5. Call emergency services promptly: Immediately dial 120 (emergency number), clearly report the location of the poisoning, number of affected individuals, and symptoms. Keep the phone line open and continuously monitor the patient’s level of consciousness and breathing while awaiting rescue.
Following initial management, ensure the patient gets adequate rest, avoids physical exertion and emotional excitement, maintains a light and easily digestible diet, and drinks sufficient fluids. Keep living areas well-ventilated, regularly inspect gas appliances for safety, and take preventive measures to avoid future incidents of poisoning.
