Nasal positive-pressure technique for nasal foreign body removal in children

Richard C Navitsky1, Alan Beamsley, Steve McLaughlin

  • 1Department of Emergency Medicine, Providence Health System, Anchorage, AK, USA.

Insights

The nasal positive pressure technique offers a safe and efficient method for removing nasal foreign bodies in children. Parents found this procedure less traumatic than injections or tongue depressor exams.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Emergency Medicine
  • Otolaryngology

Background:

  • Nasal foreign bodies are common in pediatric emergency medicine.
  • Various removal techniques exist, but novel, less invasive methods are sought.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the nasal positive pressure technique for nasal foreign body removal in children.
  • To assess parental perception of procedural trauma compared to other methods.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective chart review of pediatric patients undergoing nasal foreign body removal.
  • Utilized the nasal positive pressure technique.
  • Follow-up telephone survey of parents regarding their experience.

Main Results:

  • Nine pediatric patients were included over one year.
  • Average triage-to-discharge time was 34 minutes.
  • No sedation, consultations, or complications were reported.
  • 100% of surveyed parents found it less traumatic than an injection; 80% found it less traumatic than a tongue depressor exam.

Conclusions:

  • The nasal positive pressure technique is a safe, efficient, and minimally traumatic option for pediatric nasal foreign body removal.
  • Parental feedback indicates a favorable experience with this method.

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