Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBO) is routine treatment of carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning to prevent delayed neurological sequelae. This study looking to see if neurologic outcomes are improved with the addition of dexamethasone. CO poisoning can initiate a free radical mediated process that can instigate a demyelinating process resulting in long term neurological sequelae in some, but not all patients. In other demyelinating disorders, steroids are a part of first line treatment. HBO is already used for acute CO poisoning, so this pilot study will try to ascertain if the addition of steroids in concert with each hyperbaric oxygen session will yield improved outcomes.
Acute CO poisoning, intentional or non-intentional exposure, receiving HBO treatment during hospitalization
Age >18 years
Nebraska Medicine admission
Mechanical ventilation
No hospital admission or admission to hospital Critical Care Medicine Service
Allergy to dexamethasone
Pre-Existing neurological condition confounding outcome determination