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Foreign Body Aspiration Management — NDEB AFK MCQ

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ModerateMedical Emergencies in DentistryForeign Body Aspiration ManagementNDEB AFK

Which of the following describes the proper management of a patient who presents with foreign body aspiration (inhalation of a dental object) during treatment?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Encourage the patient to cough forcefully and lean forward; if unable to clear, perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre); if complete obstruction, activate EMS

If a patient inhales (aspirates) a dental object (crown, implant component, instrument), the priority is to determine whether it is a partial or complete airway obstruction. Partial obstruction: encourage vigorous coughing. Complete obstruction (unable to speak, cough, or breathe): perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre) in a conscious patient or CPR in an unconscious patient. Activate EMS immediately. After the emergency, chest radiograph (PA and lateral) is required to confirm the location (bronchial vs. oesophageal). Bronchoscopic retrieval is usually necessary for aspirated objects.

Reference: Malamed – Medical Emergencies in the Dental Office, 8th ed., 2022