A 2-year-old is brought to the emergency department after ingesting an unknown number of iron tablets. What is the priority nursing intervention?

Question

The question is asking the RN to understand what adverse effects occur with Iron overload in pediatric patients and prioritizing care.

Answer 1

A. Induce vomiting

B. Administer activated charcoal

C. Begin chelation therapy with deferoxamine

D. Monitor for signs of respiratory distress

Answer: C. Begin chelation therapy with deferoxamine

Rationale: Iron overdose is a medical emergency. Deferoxamine (Desferal) is the antidote that binds iron for excretion. Activated charcoal is ineffective for iron, and vomiting can be harmful. Never induce vomiting for iron overload. Recognizing which reversal agent is key to keeping the pediatric patient safe.