A nurse at a pediatrician's office is contacted by a parent whose child just ingested half a bottle of vitamins with added ferrous sulfate. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide to the parent?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Bring the child to the office for a rapid infusion of deferoxamine: Deferoxamine is the antidote for iron poisoning, but it is reserved for cases confirmed by serum iron levels or clinical severity. Immediate office visits may delay urgent poison center guidance. B. Give the child syrup of ipecac: Syrup of ipecac is no longer recommended due to poor efficacy and risk of complications such as aspiration or delayed definitive care. Its use is largely abandoned in favor of activated charcoal or gastric lavage in specific situations, guided by poison control. C. Contact the poison control center: The poison control center provides expert, immediate, evidence-based recommendations tailored to the substance and amount ingested, ensuring proper triage and care. D. Provide a high-carbohydrate meal. A high-carb meal does not prevent iron absorption or mitigate toxicity. Dietary measures are ineffective once ingestion has occurred and should not delay appropriate treatment.