10. A child has ingested a toxic amount of aspirin. Which order written by a pediatrician should a nurse question?
10. A child has ingested a toxic amount of aspirin. Which order written by a pediatrician should a nurse question?
. Administer activated charcoal following the lavage.
. Prepare for possible hemodialysis.
. Warming blanket as needed.
. Have vitamin K on hand.
Test-Taking Tip
The stem asks for an order that is "not OK." Think of all of the possible side effects of aspirin overdosage and note what three options are correct protocol.
Content Area: Child Health, Poisoning; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Evaluation; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Safe and Effective Care Environment/Safety and Infection Control/Error Prevention
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Answer 1 is incorrect because administering activated charcoal following the lavage is correct protocol when dealing with aspirin overdosages. There is no need for the nurse to question this order. Answer 2 is incorrect because hemodialysis may be used in severe cases of aspirin overdosages. There is no need for the nurse to question this order. Answer 3 is correct because hyperthermia is associated with toxic ingestions of aspirin. Therefore, external cooling (such as a cooling blanket) rather than warming is indicated. Answer 4 is incorrect because vitamin K may be needed to control the bleeding associated with aspirin overdosages. There is no need for the nurse to question this order.