Question

Which treatment should the nurse anticipate when providing care to a toddler-age client who ingested bleach?

1) Gastric lavage
2) Activated charcoal
3) Encourage vomiting
4) Analgesics, per order

Answer 1

The nurse should anticipate the use of activated charcoal for a toddler-age client who ingested bleach, while avoiding inducing vomiting and gastric lavage. Supportive care and contacting poison control are critical steps.

Step-by-step explanation:

When providing care to a toddler-age client who has ingested bleach, the nurse should anticipate the possibility of being ordered to administer activated charcoal (option 2). It is important to note that treatments such as gastric lavage (option 1) and encouraging vomiting (option 3) are generally not recommended due to the risk of additional harm to the esophagus during vomiting. Although bleach is a caustic substance, these methods may cause more damage or put the patient at risk for aspiration. Instead, the focus is on supportive care, which could include fluid replenishment and monitoring for complications. Analgesics (option 4) may be ordered if the child is in pain. The correct immediate action is to contact poison control for guidance and follow their recommendations.