A parent finds their child unconscious with pesticide. What is the best initial action the nurse should recommend?

In cases of a child found unconscious, especially in the context of potential pesticide exposure, ensuring the safety and viability of the airway is the priority. Assessing whether the child is breathing and checking for any airway obstruction allows for proper evaluation of the child’s condition. This step is crucial because if the child is not breathing or has an obstructed airway, immediate intervention is necessary to restore breathing and protect the airway.

Inducing vomiting, calling the hospital, or wiping off the pesticide may seem like valid responses, but they are secondary actions that can delay critical initial care. Inducing vomiting in an unconscious child poses a risk of aspiration, while calling the hospital does nothing to address the immediate threat to the child's safety. Wiping off pesticide could also inadvertently spread the chemical, thus worsening the situation.

Therefore, the correct action focuses on assessing basic life functions first, which sets the stage for any further necessary medical intervention.