When teaching medication safety to a parent of a toddler, which statement by the parent indicates a potential safety issue?

The statement indicating a potential safety issue is that the parent says they tell their toddler that the medicine is candy. This is concerning because it could lead to the child developing a misunderstanding about the nature of medications, viewing them as treats rather than substances that should be respected and administered with caution. This confusion can increase the risk of accidental ingestion, as the child may be more likely to seek out and consume those medications without supervision, thinking they are safe like candy.

It is critical to teach children the importance of medicine and to discourage any perception that it is something harmless or desirable to consume at will. In contrast, the other statements illustrate safer practices, such as ensuring medications are stored out of reach and verifying that child-resistant caps are working properly. These practices help reduce the risk of accidental poisonings and enhance the overall safety environment for children.