Which of the following is a critical action if a child has an impaled object?

Stabilizing the impaled object and covering the wound is essential in this situation because removing the object can worsen the injury, potentially leading to increased bleeding or further damage to surrounding tissues. By stabilizing the object, you minimize movement and reduce the risk of causing additional harm while also protecting the area from external contaminants with a covering. This approach not only prioritizes the safety of the injured child but also aligns with standard first-aid practices for impaled objects, which emphasize that any object embedded in the body should generally be left in place until medical professionals can manage the situation.