Why Does a Patient with CO Poisoning Have Cherry Red

Why does a patient with CO poisoning have cherry red skin coloring instead of cyanosis?

A) CO rapidly fills sites on the hemoglobin where oxygen normally attaches. The high level of carboxyhemoglobin and saturated hemoglobin results in the red coloration
B) CO poisons the hemoglobin and chemical alters the erythrocyte making it incapable of carrying oxygen. The red color is due to compensatory polycythemia which occurs immediately.
C) CO causes the hemoglobin molecule to break apart. The red coloration is from the hemoglobin fragments under the skin
D) Patients with CO posioning hyperventilate so the red coloration is due to the increased WOB

Correct Answer:

Verified

Unlock this answer now
Get Access to more Verified Answers free of charge

Access For Free