Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What is true about foreign body aspiration in children?

1. All items can be expelled spontaneously

2. Small toys are less harmful than food items

3. Aspirated items can cause complete airway obstruction

4. All items are likely to lodge in the right bronchus

The correct answer is: All items can be expelled spontaneously

Foreign body aspiration in children is a significant concern and understanding the nature of these incidents is crucial for effective management. The statement that all items can be expelled spontaneously is an important consideration because many foreign bodies that children may inhale can indeed be coughed out or expelled without medical intervention. The body's natural reflexes, such as coughing, play a vital role in attempting to clear the airway and can effectively eliminate certain aspirated items, especially softer ones that do not cause swelling or irritation to the airway. However, it is important to recognize that not all objects will be expelled. Factors such as the size, shape, and material of the aspirated object can influence whether or not it can be expelled. While some foreign bodies may pose minimal risk and can be expelled successfully, others may become lodged and require medical intervention. Understanding the risks associated with different types of aspirated objects is critical. For instance, certain types of food, like nuts or grapes, can be more dangerous than small toys, which may not create as much risk for blockage. Also, while aspiration does commonly occur more in the right bronchus due to anatomical reasons, it is not accurate to say that all aspirated items will lodge there. In summary, the accurate acknowledgment that many