An alert and oriented 5-year-old child drank some ammonia that was placed in a cup. He is very scared and complaining of abdominal pain, and he states that he has not vomited. Assessment shows ammonia around and in his mouth as well as on his breath. He has an open airway and is breathing adequately. His pulse and skin show no abnormalities. Appropriate care for this patient would include:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The first step in treating ingestion of a caustic substance such as ammonia is to dilute and remove the substance from the mouth and face. Rinsing the face and mouth with water is the appropriate intervention in this case. Inducing vomiting may cause further irritation to the esophagus and stomach. Positive pressure ventilation would only be necessary if the patient's breathing became compromised. Activated charcoal is not effective in treating ingestion of caustic substances.

An Alert and Oriented 5-Year-Old Child Drank Some Ammonia That