Question

Gastric lavage is not contraindicated after ingestion of which acid.

• A. HCL
• B. H2SO4
• C. Carbolic acid
• D. Nitric acid

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Gastric lavage, a procedure used to remove ingested substances from the stomach, is generally contraindicated for strong acids due to the risk of exacerbating tissue damage during the process. The following explains each option and why certain acids are contraindicated:

• HCL (Hydrochloric acid): As a strong acid, it can cause severe tissue damage. Gastric lavage could potentially spread the acid further into the esophagus or lungs, increasing the risk of perforation and damage.
• H2SO4 (Sulfuric acid): Known for its strong corrosive nature, sulfuric acid can cause significant harm to the tissues. Gastric lavage is contraindicated due to the same risks as HCL.
• Carbolic acid (Phenol): Unlike other strong mineral acids, carbolic acid is less corrosive and does not have the same immediate tissue-penetrating ability. Gastric lavage can be used to remove it without significantly increasing the risk of further injury.
• Nitric acid: As a highly corrosive material, nitric acid presents similar risks to HCL and H2SO4, making gastric lavage contraindicated.

In conclusion, gastric lavage is not contraindicated after the ingestion of Carbolic acid as it poses a relatively lower risk of tissue injury compared to other strong acids listed.