What is the recommended treatment for a child who consumes a toxic dose of fluoride?

In the case of fluoride toxicity, the recommended treatment is to administer substances rich in calcium, such as milk or calcium tablets, because they help to bind the fluoride in the gastrointestinal tract. This binding effect reduces fluoride absorption into the bloodstream, mitigating the toxic effects it has on the body. Calcium competes with fluoride for absorption, making it an effective and immediate intervention for fluoride toxicity.

Administering milk is particularly beneficial since it not only provides calcium but also enhances hydration, which is crucial in managing the symptoms of fluoride overexposure. The presence of calcium helps stabilize the situation while other medical interventions or treatments are organized.

While inducing vomiting might seem like a method to expel the fluoride, it is not typically recommended because it can lead to further complications or damage to the esophagus and stomach, especially if the fluoride intake was significant. Simply encouraging fluid intake is not as effective if it comes without a binding agent like calcium. Advising the patient not to eat for a certain period does not directly address the problem of fluoride toxicity and can potentially worsen the situation if the fluoride has already been absorbed. Therefore, the correct approach is to provide calcium-rich substances to counteract the effects of fluoride ingestion effectively.