Final answer:
The most essential equipment for a nurse caring for a toddler who has ingested drain cleaner is an intubation tray, which is critical for securing the airway in case of obstruction caused by the caustic chemical.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the case of a toddler client who has accidentally ingested drain cleaner and is brought to the emergency department, the most essential piece of equipment for the nurse would be a. Intubation tray. Drain cleaners are caustic substances that can cause severe burns to the esophagus, which may lead to swelling and obstruction of the airway. An intubation procedure allows medical personnel to secure the airway, ensuring that the toddler can breathe adequately despite any injuries caused by the chemical. The intubation tray contains all necessary tools to perform this lifesaving procedure, including an endotracheal tube, laryngoscope, and other adjuncts to manage the airway. In contrast, an EKG machine monitors the heart, a dialysis machine is used for kidney failure, and a gastric lavage tube is for washing out the stomach contents, which might not be recommended after ingestion of a caustic substance due to the risk of further damage to the esophagus and stomach.