The primary aim of this study was to characterize cognitive and behavioural impairments following confirmed environmental, non-fire related exposure to CO in patients with raised COHb presenting to the Emergency Department. Results from this study hoped to underpin the development of a specialist clinic that will undertake specific neurological, cognitive and behavioural assessment and treatment in patients exposed to CO.
CO poisoning is a significant public health issue, with domestic exposure often linked to poor appliance maintenance and a lack of CO alarms. Despite known risks, CO alarm ownership remains low, particularly among lower socio-economic and ethnic minority groups. This study assessed CO alarm prevalence, characteristics, and maintenance among Emergency Department (ED) patients in the UK.
Methods: A multicentre, cross-sectional study was conducted in two English EDs from January 2022 to March 2023. Participants aged 16 and over, or carers of children under 16, completed surveys on CO alarm ownership, testing frequency, and maintenance. Data were collected on REDCap, with descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests used for analysis.
Results: Among 6043 respondents, 63.1% owned a CO alarm. Homeowners were more likely than renters to have alarms (67.4% vs 58.0%), with ownership higher among white respondents (68.9%) than ethnic minorities. Key barriers included unawareness (27.59%) and lack of landlord installation (14.87%). Only 56.96% had alarms correctly placed, and 20.79% had never tested them.
Conclusions: Significant gaps remain in CO alarm ownership, placement, and testing. ED-based public health interventions and stronger enforcement of safety regulations could improve awareness and reduce CO poisoning risks.
