A patient is admitted to the emergency room after a suicide attempt during which she ingested liquid drain cleaner

Question

Her diagnosis is acute gastritis and esophagitis. Which of the following nursing actions is a priority when caring for this patient?
A) Induce vomiting to minimize risk of esophageal damage.
B) Prepare the patient for an immediate endoscopy.
C) Administer an acidic antidote such as diluted vinegar.
D) Place the patient in high-Fowler's position to eliminate reflux.

Answer 1

Ans: C
Feedback: Emergency treatment of alkali ingestion consists of diluting and neutralizing the alkaline substance with an acid. Diluted vinegar or lemon juice are commonly used. The patient is likely to require endoscopy to assess damage; however, this would follow administration of an antidote. Inducing vomiting would exacerbate esophageal damage by exposing esophageal tissues to the alkaline substance a second time. Maintaining the patient is high-Fowler's position is indicated; however, the priority intervention is neutralizing the drain cleaner.