A 2-year-old is brought 30 minutes after drinking kerosene stored in a soft drink bottle. He smells of hydrocarbon and has a mild cough but normal saturation. Which intervention is contraindicated?
- A Chest radiograph to look for infiltrates
- B Supplemental oxygen for desaturation
- C Induction of emesis or gastric lavage ✓
- D Observation for respiratory symptoms over 6 hours
Correct answer: C. Induction of emesis or gastric lavage
Explanation
The dominant toxicity of kerosene is chemical pneumonitis caused by aspiration into the lungs, not gastrointestinal absorption. Emesis and gastric lavage are contraindicated because they sharply increase the risk of aspiration; lavage is contemplated only with a cuffed endotracheal tube in place for massive ingestions. Radiography, oxygen support, and observation are all appropriate, as respiratory findings may evolve over several hours.
Reference: Ghai Essential Pediatrics, 9th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.