What Is Foreign Object Removal In Kids?
Foreign object removal in kids is the process of removing foreign bodies that are swallowed or inserted into a child’s body. This can happen by accident and is very common. Ingestion or insertion of a foreign object into a child’s body can be extremely dangerous.
What Are Common Foreign Bodies?
A foreign body is anything ingested or inserted into the body that does not belong. There are many types of foreign bodies; some may be more dangerous than others.
#1. Common Inserted Foreign Objects
Children often insert small objects into their ears and noses out of simple curiosity or by complete accident.
When children insert objects in their ears, items can get lodged in the ear canal and be highly uncomfortable.
Small objects inserted into the nose can get stuck in the sinuses, causing discomfort. Common inserted foreign bodies include:
- Marbles
- Batteries
- Small toys (Legos, water beads, etc.)
- Crayons
- Coins
- Small rocks or pebbles
#2. Inhaled Foreign Bodies
Children are extremely susceptible to inhaling foreign objects. Small foods are one of the most inhaled foreign bodies by children.
These foods can be easily inhaled and should be cut up or avoided if possible:
- Grapes
- Hot dogs
- Popcorn
- Cherry tomatoes
- Nuts (peanuts, cashews, almonds, etc.)
#3. Foreign Objects To The Skin
Due to the explorative nature of young children, they can come into contact with many foreign bodies on the skin. Splinters are the most common foreign body that children get in their skin and generally do not require medical attention unless they are severe. To remove a splinter, try these tips:
- Clean the area with rubbing alcohol.
- Try to remove the splinter with tweezers gently.
- Bandage up the area and keep it dry to avoid infection.
An additional foreign object of the skin is glass. If you have broken a glass object and have a small child, clean the area immediately and have your child wear hard-soled shoes around the area until you are sure the glass is gone.
#4. Foreign Objects In The Eyes
Children’s eyes can come into contact with foreign objects while playing or during an accident. Airborne particles can get into the eyes and generally go away on their own. If your child has persistent symptoms of airborne particles in their eyes, see a medical professional.
Accidents may cause dangerous foreign bodies in the eyes. If you have been in an accident and suspect shards of glass or metal in your child’s eye, visit the emergency room immediately.
#5. Ingested Foreign Objects
Children explore with their mouths, meaning they may put small objects in their mouths and accidentally swallow them. If your child swallows a small object, it will likely pass on its own. However, you should consult a medical professional if your child has ingested a foreign object to ensure it is not an emergency.
If you believe this is a life-threatening emergency, call 911 immediately.
Methods Of Foreign Object Removal In Kids:
The removal of a foreign object depends on the type of object, the location of the object, and how long the object has been in the child’s body. For small, non-life threatening foreign bodies such as those in the ears or nose, you can visit a children’s urgent care.
Kids-specific urgent care facilities can locate the object by completing a simple exam or x-ray. They will likely use tweezers or light suction to remove the foreign object. KidsStreet Urgent Care offers foreign body removal in our children’s urgent care services.
For inhaled or swallowed objects that pose a life-threatening emergency, surgery may be an option that your doctor considers. This entirely depends on the object type and location, but it can be the only way to remove the object.
Turn to KidsStreet Urgent Care
KidsStreet Urgent Care regularly removes foreign bodies in kids and would love to help your child heal and feel better, fast!
You can use our online registration to join the queue and wait from the comfort of your home or car. We’ll send you a text when we’re ready for you to check in at the front desk.