Preventing Harm from Environmental Exposure to Carbon Monoxide

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colourless, odourless, tasteless, and non-irritable gas that is formed by the partial combustion of fuel such as wood, coal, and gas. Carbon monoxide poisoning is one of the most common causes of accidental and intentional poisoning worldwide and can disproportionately affect vulnerable people and unborn babies.

CO poisoning is often undetected due to its unnoticeable properties and non-specific symptoms, consequently leading to misdiagnosis.

Evidence is accumulating of raised CO levels within UK homes at levels above those recommended as safe.? Indoor sources of CO such as gas cooking and heating appliances as well as smoking contribute significantly to CO exposure within homes.

The programme Preventing Harm from Environmental Exposure to Carbon Monoxide has been created to enable health and social care staff to recognise the signs and symptoms of CO exposure and actions that can be taken to prevent harm to their patient / clients and their own families.

There are 3 modules within this programme:

• Carbon Monoxide Awareness and Prevention
• Carbon Monoxide Exposure: Awareness and Prevention: Pregnancy
• Vulnerable people and Carbon Monoxide

All learners need to complete module 1 before undertaking one of the two modules on pregnancy or vulnerable people.