A young child has just arrived at the emergency department after ingestion of aspirin at home. The practitioner has ordered activated charcoal. The nurse administers charcoal in which way?

A) Administer through a nasogastric tube because the child will not drink it because of the taste.
B) Serve in a clear plastic cup so the child can see how much has been drunk.
C) Give half of the solution, and then give the other half in 1 hour.
D) Serve in an opaque container with a straw.

Question

Darion Abreu · Accepted Answer

Final Answer : D, Explanation :  Although the activated charcoal can be mixed with a flavorful beverage, it will be black and resemble mud. When it is served in an opaque container, the child does not have any preconceived ideas about its being distasteful. The nasogastric tube should be used only in children without a gag reflex. The ability to see the charcoal solution may affect the child's desire to drink it. The child should be encouraged to drink the solution all at once.

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