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I. Introduction - English
The MicroCO meter is based on an electrochemical fuel cell sensor,
which works through the reaction of carbon monoxide (CO) with an
electrolyte at one electrode, and oxygen (from ambient air) at the
other. This reaction generates an electrical current proportional to
CO concentration. Output from the sensor is monitored by a
microprocessor, which detects peak expired concentrations of
alveolar gas. This is then converted to % carboxyhaemoglobin
(%COHb) using the mathematical relationships described by Jarvis
et al, for concentrations below 90 ppm, and by Stewart et al for
higher levels. Raised levels of carboxyhaemoglobin are most
commonly caused by accidental smoke inhalation/CO poisoning or
cigarette smoking. The MicroCO includes a countdown timer as an
aid to timing the breath holding period prior to exhalation results are
displayed on a clear LCD display. Warning lights are provided to
give an instant indication of the smoking level.
The countdown timer, warning light levels, and the alarm level are
user adjustable when the unit is connected to a PC running COBRA
software.
Note: the countdown timer, warning light levels, and the
alarm level used throughout this manual are the factory
settings and may have been changed.
References
Jarvis MJ, Belcher M, Vesey C, Hutchison DCS
Low cost carbon monoxide monitors in smoking assessment
Thorax 1986; 41: 886-887
Stewart RD, Stewart RS, Stamm W, Seleen RP
Rapid estimation of carboxyhaemoglobin levels in fire
fighters
JAMA 1976; 235, 390-392
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