Final answer:
Activated charcoal is indicated for pediatric patients who have ingested certain toxic substances. It works by adsorbing toxins onto its surface, preventing their absorption by the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Activated charcoal is indicated for pediatric patients who have ingested certain toxic substances. It is commonly used in cases of poisoning to help bind and prevent the absorption of the toxin into the bloodstream. The activated charcoal works by adsorbing the toxin onto its surface, preventing it from being absorbed by the body.
For example, if a child accidentally ingests a household cleaning product that contains toxic chemicals, activated charcoal can be administered to help minimize the absorption of the chemicals and reduce the severity of the poisoning. The activated charcoal binds to the toxic substances, preventing them from causing harm.
Activated charcoal is not effective for all types of poisoning and should only be used under the guidance of a healthcare professional. It is important to seek immediate medical attention in cases of poisoning to ensure proper treatment.