When transporting a confused patient who drank household bleach, what complication should be continuously assessed?

When transporting a patient who has ingested household bleach and is confused, continuous assessment for vomiting is crucial due to the potential for severe gastrointestinal irritation and injury caused by bleach. Household bleach is a caustic substance, and ingestion can lead to damage to the mucous membranes of the mouth, throat, esophagus, and stomach. Vomiting may occur as the body attempts to expel the harmful substance, which can exacerbate the risk of aspiration and lead to further complications, such as chemical pneumonitis.

Monitoring for vomiting allows for timely intervention if the patient were to aspirate the vomitus, which can cause respiratory distress and further complications. Additionally, the presence of vomiting can provide important information regarding the severity of the patient’s condition and the ongoing effects of the bleach ingestion.

In contrast, while chest pain, headache, and diaphoresis may be relevant symptoms to monitor in other contexts, they are not as directly linked to the immediate and critical complications associated with ingestion of a caustic substance like household bleach. The priority in this situation is to ensure airway protection and manage immediate risks, making vomiting a key complication to assess continuously.