Why is high-flow oxygen prioritized in treating carbon monoxide poisoning?

High-flow oxygen is prioritized in treating carbon monoxide poisoning because it competes with carbon monoxide for binding sites on hemoglobin. Carbon monoxide has a much higher affinity for hemoglobin than oxygen does, which means that in cases of poisoning, carbon monoxide can effectively displace oxygen, leading to hypoxia and potential tissue damage.

By administering high-flow oxygen, the concentration of oxygen in the bloodstream increases, which not only helps displace carbon monoxide from hemoglobin but also enhances the delivery of oxygen to cells and tissues that are deprived of it during the poisoning incident. This is crucial in preventing further organ damage and promoting recovery in affected individuals.

Other options do not adequately address the mechanisms involved in carbon monoxide poisoning or the actions of high-flow oxygen therapy. For instance, while oxygenation can have secondary effects on blood pressure and heart rate, its primary function in this context is related to its competitive binding with carbon monoxide.