After a child aspirates gummy bears and is suctioned, what should the neonatal/pediatric specialist do next?

In the scenario where a child has aspirated gummy bears and has been suctioned, the next appropriate action would be to consider the child's airway and respiratory status. After suctioning, the priority is to ensure that any remaining obstructive material is further managed effectively.

Rolling the patient to the right side for postural drainage is relevant here because it can help facilitate the clearing of any secretions or remaining aspirated material in the airways. The right side positioning encourages gravity to assist in the drainage process, which can be particularly beneficial after an aspiration incident. This technique aims to enhance the clearance of any residual material while also allowing for optimal lung function as it encourages lung expansion.

On the other hand, while the Heimlich maneuver may be indicated in some choking situations, it is generally recommended only for conscious patients who are unable to breathe or cough effectively. In the case of an already suctioned child, further aggressive measures like back blows or abdominal thrusts should be avoided unless absolutely necessary, as these could lead to additional trauma or complications. Ordering a chest x-ray may be warranted later for further assessment, but immediate management focuses on airway clearance rather than imaging at this point.

Thus, rolling the patient to the right side for postural drainage is an appropriate and