criteria for xray referral
Last reviewed 10/2023
Blunt objects such as coins and most sharp objects including open safety pins will pass through the gut without harm. If the patient is asymptomatic, the patient (or more likely the parents) can be reassured.
There is probably little point in taking chest or abdominal xrays uless further action is required, such as for toxic objects, symptomatic sharp objects and bezoars.
ref: N Lawrence et al, H/B Emergencies in Gen Pract 2e, 1996