A nurse is working in a clinical research trial that has a control group and an experimental group but does not know which group is receiving the active drug. Which statement best identifies the research design?

A. Biotransformation: This refers to the chemical alteration of a drug in the body, usually by the liver, into metabolites. It does not describe the movement of the drug to the target organ.

B. Distribution: This is the correct answer. Distribution refers to the process by which a drug is transported by the blood to the target organ or tissues after it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

C. Excretion: This is the process of eliminating waste products, including drugs, from the body, typically through the kidneys. It does not involve the movement to the target organ.

D. Absorption: This refers to the process by which a drug enters the bloodstream from the site of administration. It precedes distribution but does not describe the movement to the target organ.

A. "What do the pills look like?" This is a critical question because identifying the medication will guide the nurse in determining the appropriate course of action. However, it should not be the initial response because emergency services should be alerted immediately if the child's life is potentially at risk.

B. “Ask if there is medication to induce vomiting in the household.” Inducing vomiting is not recommended without knowing the specific substance ingested, as it could cause more harm, particularly if the substance is caustic or can lead to aspiration. This is not the best initial action.

C. "Have the child drink a glass of milk." While milk may sometimes be recommended to coat the stomach, this advice is not universally appropriate, particularly without knowing the substance ingested. Milk could interfere with the absorption of some medications or exacerbate the condition.

D. "I'm calling emergency personnel for you now." This is the best response as it ensures immediate medical help is on the way. Time is critical in poisoning cases, and the child may need immediate intervention from professionals.