What to do for carbon monoxide poisoning
Nov 25, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, first aid for coal gas poisoning must be administered immediately. The key measures include quickly removing the victim from the contaminated environment, calling for emergency help and reporting the incident without delay, providing on-site emergency treatment, ensuring proper follow-up care and observation, and paying attention to subsequent medical examinations and prevention. The most critical aspect of first aid for coal gas poisoning is speed—every step must be carried out promptly and decisively.
Generally, in the event of coal gas poisoning, emergency rescue must be carried out immediately. Key response measures include rapidly removing the victim from the contaminated environment, calling for help and reporting the incident without delay, administering on-site first aid, providing proper follow-up care and observation, and emphasizing subsequent medical examinations and prevention. The details are as follows:
1. Quickly remove from the contaminated environment: Upon discovering a person affected by poisoning, immediately open doors and windows, and swiftly move the patient to a well-ventilated outdoor area with fresh air. Handle the patient gently during transfer, avoiding dragging, and turn off indoor equipment such as coal stoves or gas appliances that may emit toxic gases.
2. Immediately call for emergency assistance: After moving the patient, dial 120 (emergency medical services) right away, clearly stating the location of the incident, number of people affected, the patient’s condition, and the suspected cause of poisoning. If others are present, ask them for help to ensure emergency responders can locate and reach the scene quickly, saving valuable time for treatment.
3. Administer on-site emergency treatment: If the patient is conscious, have them rest in a seated or semi-reclining position and keep them warm. If the patient is unconscious, not breathing, or has a weak heartbeat, immediately loosen their collar and belt, clear any secretions from the mouth and nose, maintain an open airway, and begin cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) without delay.
4. Provide follow-up care and monitoring: While waiting for emergency personnel, closely monitor the patient’s consciousness, breathing, body temperature, and other vital signs. Wrap the patient in blankets or clothing to prevent chilling, but avoid excessive bundling that could restrict breathing. Do not give food or water to an unconscious patient to prevent coughing or choking.
5. Emphasize follow-up examination and prevention: After the patient is transported to the hospital, actively cooperate with doctors in treatments such as hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Even if symptoms improve, do not discharge the patient prematurely. After recovery, inspect the home for potential sources of coal gas leakage and install certified carbon monoxide detectors.
The key to effective emergency response in coal gas poisoning is speed—every step must be taken promptly and decisively. It is essential to enhance safety awareness in daily life and implement preventive measures in advance to reduce the risk of poisoning at its source.
