skip to main content

Foreign body aspiration — RACP Paediatrics MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardRespiratoryForeign body aspirationRACP Paediatrics

A 2-year-old has persistent cough and unilateral wheeze for 10 days after a choking episode with peanuts. He is afebrile and chest radiograph shows right-sided hyperinflation on expiratory views. What is the most appropriate investigation?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Rigid bronchoscopy by an experienced airway team

Foreign body aspiration is likely with a witnessed choking episode, unilateral wheeze and air trapping. Bronchoscopy is both diagnostic and therapeutic and should not be deferred for asthma testing. A normal or near-normal chest radiograph would not exclude aspiration when the history is strong.

Reference: RCH Inhaled foreign bodies guideline; RACP Knowledge Guides