Question
If a child accidentally swallows a one-yuan coin and it may have been in their body for four months, how should it be handled currently?
Answer
Generally, when a foreign object enters the gastrointestinal tract, it usually passes out of the body with peristalsis. However, in some cases, it may cause problems such as intestinal obstruction, intussusception, or gastrointestinal bleeding, and further examination is required. It is advised that parents avoid excessive anxiety. The current step is to take the child to the hospital for a standing abdominal X-ray examination to confirm whether the coin is still in the intestines. At the same time, consuming more foods like leeks can promote gastrointestinal motility and help expel the coin.