A 2-year-old drank a small amount of kerosene and is now coughing but remains conscious. Which nursing action is the priority?

Correct answer: A. Assess breathing, give oxygen if needed, and arrange urgent medical review

  • A. Assess breathing, give oxygen if needed, and arrange urgent medical review
  • B. Induce vomiting to remove the kerosene from the stomach
  • C. Give milk immediately to neutralise the swallowed hydrocarbon
  • D. Insert a nasogastric tube and perform gastric lavage

Explanation

Kerosene can be aspirated into the lungs and cause chemical pneumonitis, so breathing assessment and respiratory support take priority. Vomiting, gastric lavage, and nasogastric instrumentation can increase aspiration and should be avoided unless specifically directed by a toxicology specialist.

Submitted by a TestUstad contributor and published by the TestUstad editorial teamLast updated
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Paediatric emergencies cover rapid assessment using airway, breathing and circulation, basic life support, respiratory distress, choking, shock, seizures, poisoning, burns, severe dehydration and trauma. Questions focus on recognising danger signs, prioritising immediate nursing actions, calculating weight-based treatment and distinguishing compensated from decompensated shock.

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