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Iron poisoning — ACEM Fellowship MCQ

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HardToxicologyIron poisoningACEM Fellowship

A 3-year-old child presents to a Brisbane ED, triage category 1, after ingesting adult iron tablets. He has profuse vomiting, lethargy and shock. Abdominal X-ray shows multiple radio-opaque tablets and serum iron level is markedly elevated. What is the most appropriate management?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — IV deferoxamine with resuscitation and toxicology advice

Shock, vomiting, radio-opaque tablets and high serum iron indicate severe poisoning requiring deferoxamine and toxicology support.

Reference: Poisons Information Centre iron poisoning guidance; paediatric toxicology