On arrival at UI Hospitals and Clinics, the patient will be seen by an HBO physician and a Neurologist. When the clinical condition of the patient and time permits, psychometric testing will be done before receiving the first HBO treatment. The absence of impaired function on testing will not exclude treatment, but will play a part in the decision-making process. Where more than one treatment with HBO is required, psychometric testing will be repeated after each treatment to document the patient’s progress. Psychometric testing can be regarded as a clinical tool to objectively measure effects of CO poisoning on the CNS, and provides a baseline for future reference.

All patients will require a chest x-ray and ear examination. Myringotomy may be required for those who are not conscious, or those unable to equalize their middle ear pressure. In the conscious patient, this is rarely necessary.

Many patients need to stay overnight in Iowa City and are re-evaluated the day after the first HBO treatment. Accommodation for the critically ill is in the Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU). Less acutely ill patients stay on the Neurology floor in the UI Hospitals and Clinics for observation. For those not requiring observation, motel accommodation is acceptable.

Such energetic treatment of CO poisoning as described above is cost effective. This is true even in 'intermediate' poisoning where sequelae can be unsuspected or dormant for some time. Reference sources substantiating this or any other aspect of CO poisoning can be obtained by contacting the Hyperbaric Medicine Service at UI Hospitals and Clinics.

Department of
Respiratory Care
UI Hospitals and Clinics
200 Hawkins Drive
Iowa City, Iowa 52242
Phone: 319-356-3474
Fax: 319-356-8365