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Airway foreign body aspiration — RCPSC EM MCQ

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ModerateRespiratory emergenciesAirway foreign body aspirationRCPSC EM

A 7-year-old is brought after choking on peanuts. He is now coughing intermittently, afebrile and oxygen saturation is 96%. Examination shows unilateral wheeze on the right with reduced breath sounds; chest radiograph is normal. What is the most appropriate initial management?

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Correct answer: E — Arrange urgent bronchoscopy consultation for suspected airway foreign body

A normal radiograph does not exclude an airway foreign body. Persistent unilateral wheeze or reduced breath sounds after a choking event warrants urgent airway/bronchoscopy assessment.

Reference: Canadian Paediatric Society injury guidance; PALS