Before contacting poison control about a medication ingestion in a child who is unconscious, you should

• A. Give milk or water to dilute the medication
• B. Have the child drink lemon and vinegar to neutralize the medication
• C. Give nothing to eat or drink
• D. Force the child to throw up

Answer: (C)

Giving nothing by mouth is essential when a child is unconscious after ingestion. Liquids or attempts to “dilute” or “neutralize” the substance can cause choking or be breathed into the lungs (aspiration), which is dangerous. There isn’t a safe universal remedy, so the best action is to contact poison control or emergency services for specific guidance based on what was taken and how much. While waiting for instructions, monitor the child’s breathing and circulation and be ready to perform CPR if breathing stops. If the child is breathing, place them on their side in a recovery position to keep the airway clear, and do not try to give anything by mouth.