Podcast 188 - Sodium Nitrite Ingestion & Methemoglobinemia w/ Dr. Brookeman

In this episode of the FOAMfrat Podcast, Dr. Harrison Brookeman joins the discussion to examine methemoglobinemia and the emerging prehospital threat of sodium nitrite ingestion. Often viewed as a rare toxicology concept, this condition is appearing more frequently and can progress rapidly with devastating consequences if it is not recognized early.

The episode focuses on what matters most to EMS clinicians in the field: the physiology of methemoglobinemia, why these patients appear profoundly hypoxic despite adequate ventilation, and the classic clue: a pulse oximetry reading that remains fixed around 85 percent regardless of oxygen delivery. The conversation also addresses iatrogenic causes such as benzocaine exposure, expected mental status changes, and why oxygen alone does not correct the problem.

Emphasis is placed on prehospital decision-making, including early involvement with poison control, transport destination considerations, and the importance of ensuring these patients are taken to the right facility the first time. This episode is intended to sharpen recognition, improve pattern awareness, and prepare providers for a call that does not follow typical respiratory failure patterns.