Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

What is the first action parents should take if their toddler ingests a hazardous substance?

1. Give the toddler milk.

2. Go to an emergency department.

3. Call the poison control center.

4. Induce vomiting.

The correct answer is: Call the poison control center.

When a toddler ingests a hazardous substance, the first action parents should take is to call the poison control center. This action is crucial because poison control professionals are specifically trained to provide immediate, expert guidance on how to manage the situation based on the type of substance consumed and the child's condition. They can give instructions on whether any immediate action is necessary and what steps should be taken next. The poison control center can assess the risk and give tailored recommendations, which may include calling for emergency assistance or going to the hospital. They can also advise on whether the child should be induced to vomit or if any other steps should be avoided, as inducing vomiting is not always appropriate or safe depending on the substance ingested. In contrast, offering milk or inducing vomiting could potentially worsen the situation depending on the substance, and seeking emergency care first without consultation may delay potentially life-saving advice. Hence, engaging with poison control as an initial step ensures that the child receives the safest and most effective response to the ingestion of a hazardous substance.