Question

A 2-year-old child ingests an unknown quantity of paracetamol tablets approximately 2 hours ago. She is brought to the emergency department and is asymptomatic. What is the most important initial management step?

Accepted Answer

Take a plasma paracetamol level immediately

Answer

Administer oral activated charcoal

Answer

Start an infusion of N-acetylcysteine (NAC)

Answer

Check liver function tests

Answer

Reassure and discharge if asymptomatic

Practice question

A 2-year-old child ingests an unknown quantity of paracetamol tablets approximately 2 hours ago. She is brought to the emergency department and is asymptomatic. What is the most important initial management step?