What does a Co-oximeter/Hemoximeter diagnose?

A Co-oximeter, also known as a Hemoximeter, is a specialized device used to measure various forms of hemoglobin in the blood. Specifically, it provides critical information about oxygen saturation and identifies the presence of carbon monoxide and other abnormal hemoglobin species.

In the context of diagnosing carbon monoxide poisoning, the Co-oximeter measures the percentage of carboxyhemoglobin, which is hemoglobin bound to carbon monoxide. This is crucial because carbon monoxide competes with oxygen for binding sites on hemoglobin, rendering the blood less effective in transporting oxygen to tissues.

Diagnosing carbon monoxide poisoning precisely is vital for patient management, as it requires specific treatment such as the administration of oxygen therapy to displace carbon monoxide from hemoglobin and restore normal oxygen transport capacity.

While the other options are related to conditions that can affect overall health, they are not specifically diagnosed using a Co-oximeter. Understanding the specific use of this device is crucial for identifying and treating life-threatening carbon monoxide exposure effectively.