Pediatric ATI Practice Exam

After a child ingests a bottle of acetaminophen, which medication should the nurse anticipate administering?

1. Activated charcoal

2. Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)

3. Ibuprofen

4. Digoxin

The correct answer is: Acetylcysteine (Mucomyst)

The administration of acetylcysteine (Mucomyst) is the correct choice following an acetaminophen overdose because it acts as an antidote. Acetylcysteine plays a crucial role in replenishing glutathione levels in the liver, which helps to neutralize the toxic metabolites produced by acetaminophen overdose. This medication protects the liver from damage if given within a specific timeframe following ingestion, typically within 8-10 hours after the overdose, but it can still be beneficial even if administered later. Activated charcoal could be considered in cases of an acute overdose to reduce absorption of the drug from the gastrointestinal tract; however, it's not an antidote and does not specifically counteract the toxic effects of acetaminophen. Ibuprofen is an alternative analgesic and antipyretic but would not be indicated in this scenario, as it would not mitigate the effects of acetaminophen toxicity. Digoxin, a medication used for heart conditions, is not relevant to acetaminophen ingestion and would not apply in this context.