A toddler is brought to the emergency department after ingesting several tablets of acetaminophen from a bottle that the toddler found in the mother's purse. The healthcare provider prescribes N-acetylcysteine solution for oral administration. Which action should the nurse implement if the child vomits?

Rationale: A. Teach parents about poison prevention in young children: While this is an important long-term intervention, it does not address the immediate concern of replacing a potentially lost therapeutic dose of the antidote. Teaching should occur after the child’s safety is ensured. B. Lavage activated charcoal before giving acetylcysteine dose: Activated charcoal may reduce acetylcysteine’s effectiveness when administered together. Gastric lavage is not routinely indicated if the child is alert and beyond the immediate ingestion window, and is not a substitute for re-dosing the antidote. C. If dose is vomited within 1 hour of administration, repeat that oral dose: Re-administering N-acetylcysteine within one hour of vomiting ensures the child receives an effective therapeutic dose. Prompt re-dosing is crucial in preventing hepatic damage. D. Obtain blood samples to monitor liver function: Liver function tests are part of ongoing monitoring but do not address the acute need to ensure the antidote is absorbed. Blood work is secondary to ensuring that the child receives the full therapeutic dose.