Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of your child after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
Your child was seen in the ED because something got stuck in their nose. When an object gets into the nose that shouldn't be there, it is called a "foreign body."
The doctor removed the object. Your child can recover at home.
If the object caused a sinus infection, the doctor probably gave your child antibiotics. It is very important they finish all the medicine, even if they start to feel better.
How do I care for my child at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for your child. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also:
●Call your child's regular doctor and tell them your child was in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Give your child all their medicines as instructed.
●Give your child non-prescription medicines to relieve pain, if needed. Examples include acetaminophen (sample brand name: Tylenol) and ibuprofen (sample brand names: Advil, Motrin). Never give aspirin to a child younger than 18 years old.
When should I get emergency help?
●Call for emergency help right away (in the US and Canada, call 9-1-1) if:
•Your child is choking or has trouble breathing.
●Return to the ED if:
•Your child has a nosebleed that won't stop.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if your child has:
●A fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
●Very bad ear, throat, or sinus pain
●Trouble breathing through their nose
●New or worsening symptoms
Patient education: Removing objects stuck up the nose (The Basics)
Patient education: Sinusitis in children (The Basics)
