Hazards of Gas Poisoning and Its Prevention Measures

Gas poisoning poses a particularly significant threat to human health. Mild cases of gas poisoning can lead to dizziness and unconsciousness, while severe cases can endanger one's life. Therefore, it is crucial for everyone to take this issue seriously and avoid gas poisoning in our daily lives. Gas poisoning is also a relatively common occurrence, and it is essential for us to have some basic knowledge of self-rescue in case of such an emergency. What are the emergency measures for gas poisoning?

Emergency Measures for Gas Poisoning

1. Assess and ensure the safety of the scene. Since carbon monoxide is flammable, avoid sources of ignition and turn off the gas when entering the room. If suicide is suspected, it is necessary to investigate other possibilities of poisoning.
2. Open the windows for ventilation and remove the patient from the carbon monoxide-poisoned environment. It is important to keep the patient warm, as cold stimulation can not only exacerbate hypoxia but also induce shock and death.
3. Assess the patient's condition. If any of the following situations occur, immediately call the emergency number: very slow breathing or stopped breathing; unconsciousness, unable to be woken up, or seizures.
4. If the heartbeat and breathing stop, immediately perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation until emergency personnel arrive.
5. If conditions permit, provide oxygen to the patient promptly.

Common Misconceptions

1. Confusing gas with the gases produced by coal combustion. Some inferior coals may produce sulfides during combustion, which have an unpleasant odor and can cause headaches and dizziness. However, gas refers to carbon monoxide, which is invisible and odorless.
2. Entering a scene with a high concentration of carbon monoxide blindly. When entering an environment with a high concentration of carbon monoxide to rescue someone, it is strictly prohibited to carry any open flame. Even pressing the doorbell or turning on the indoor lights can cause sparks that may lead to explosions.

Risk Prevention

1. Equip each household with a carbon monoxide monitor and ensure timely ventilation to avoid poisoning.
2. Ensure that all gas, fuel, and electrical equipment in the home are functioning properly. Check heating appliances that use fuel and ensure proper ventilation.
3. Do not leave a running car in the garage (even if the garage door is open). Avoid using charcoal for barbecue or portable propane grills indoors.
4. After gas poisoning, it is crucial to conduct a psychiatric and suicidal tendency assessment for the patient to prevent repeated suicidal behavior.
5. Gas poisoning patients must undergo systematic treatment at the hospital before being discharged. Patients with complications or sequelae should take oral medication or undergo other targeted treatments after discharge. Severe cases may take one to two years to fully recover.