Question

A 3-year-old boy presents with an altered mental status. His parents state that he wandered into the garage unattended. Which of these signs indicates that he has ingested a poisonous substance?

MCQ Options:
a. Rapid breathing
b. Warm skin
c. Dilated pupils
d. Unsteady gait

Answer 1

Dilated pupils may indicate potential poisoning in a 3-year-old boy found with an altered mental status after being in the garage, suggesting the need for immediate medical evaluation.

Step-by-step explanation:

Among the signs that a 3-year-old boy has ingested a poisonous substance after wandering into the garage unattended, dilated pupils may be indicative of poisoning. Poisonous substances can affect the nervous system and cause symptoms like altered mental status, which the boy is presenting with. However, the presence of a single symptom is not sufficient for a diagnosis, and it’s important to consider the context and other potential symptoms. Dilated pupils can be a common sign of poisoning, particularly with certain chemicals or medications found in a garage setting. Therefore, it is critical to observe for other signs and seek immediate medical attention if poisoning is suspected.