What action should be taken immediately if a nurse suspects a child has ingested poison?

The immediate action of contacting poison control for guidance is crucial in the management of potential poisoning in children. Poison control centers have trained professionals who can provide specific recommendations based on the type and amount of substance ingested, as well as the child's age, weight, and overall health status. This guidance is vital to ensure the safety and appropriateness of the treatment that needs to be initiated.

When a nurse suspects poison ingestion, the situation often requires rapid assessment and management. Poison control can give information on whether activated charcoal is indicated, which is not appropriate for all types of poisoning. Inducing vomiting is also not universally recommended, as it can lead to additional complications such as aspiration. Waiting for symptoms to worsen can delay potentially life-saving interventions. Therefore, the best initial step is to gather expert guidance from poison control, ensuring that the child receives the most effective and safest care based on professional expertise.