During crown delivery the crown is dropped and the patient swallows it. Which of the following would NOT be an expected finding?

Correct answer: C. Bradycardia (a slow pulse)

• A. Cyanosis develops if the object obstructs the airway and gas exchange is impaired.
• B. Inability to speak or make sound is the hallmark of a COMPLETE airway obstruction.
• C. CORRECT — this would NOT be expected. An airway obstruction or foreign body event produces a SYMPATHETIC surge: TACHYCARDIA, hypertension, and agitation. Bradycardia is a very late and ominous sign of severe hypoxia in an arresting patient — it is not part of the acute aspiration or swallowing presentation.
• D. Coughing is the normal protective reflex when a foreign body contacts the larynx and is expected.

Note: Swallowed (GI tract) = usually observe and confirm with an abdominal/chest radiograph. Aspirated (airway) = emergency. Always take a radiograph to determine which happened.