Foreign bodies (nose & ear)
Estimated reading time:
Is a foreign object visible? (Use a light)
- Is there bleeding, pain, itching, or discharge?
- Does the child frequently touch their nose or ear?
- Foreign object in the nose:
- Signs of nosebleed, noisy breathing, or nasal-sounding speech
- Foreign object in the ear:
- Reduced hearing ability and possible signs of infection (fever, pain, swelling)
Important instructions must be followed:
• Never use instruments like tweezers or cotton swabs to remove the foreign object, as this can cause injuries or push the object further inside.
Foreign object in the nose
• The child should blow their nose into a tissue to possibly expel the foreign object.
• Check the nasal mucus to see if the foreign object has been removed.
• In case of nosebleed, follow the appropriate instructions for treating nosebleeds.
Foreign object in the ear
• Important: Never manipulate inside the ear! • The eardrum is a delicate membrane near the ear canal entrance and can be easily injured.