What should I do if I swallowed a nail clipper?

After swallowing a nail clipper, immediately stop eating and drinking, remain calm and do not induce vomiting, monitor for any symptoms of discomfort, record the characteristics of the nail clipper, and seek prompt medical evaluation. Nail clippers are sharp metal objects that may damage the digestive tract and require careful management. If severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or black stools occur, immediate medical attention is recommended.

1. Stop eating and drinking: Avoid food or liquid pushing the nail clipper through the digestive tract, which could worsen mucosal injury. This also prepares the stomach for potential medical procedures and reduces associated risks.

2. Stay calm and do not induce vomiting: Vomiting may cause the nail clipper to scratch or injure the throat or esophagus during regurgitation, leading to secondary harm. Maintain emotional stability and avoid hasty or panicked actions.

3. Monitor for symptoms: Watch for signs such as abdominal pain, bloating, nausea, vomiting, or blood in stool. These may indicate injury to the digestive tract and require close attention.

4. Record the nail clipper's characteristics: Recall or confirm the size, shape, and whether it has sharp edges—this information provides critical reference for diagnosis and treatment planning by the physician.

5. Seek timely medical evaluation: Use endoscopy or X-ray imaging to determine the location of the nail clipper and assess whether the digestive tract is damaged. A doctor will decide if intervention is needed to remove it, preventing delayed treatment.

Follow your doctor’s advice on dietary adjustments afterward. Initially, consume mild, easily digestible liquid foods and avoid coarse or hard foods that may irritate the digestive tract. Maintain regular sleep patterns to support mucosal healing and closely monitor your physical condition.