A Case of Recurrent Accidental Ingestion of Hijab Scarf Needle Pin.

Introduction: Accidental ingestion of needle pin has been reported among tailors and women using hijabs or headscarves. Sharp objects when swallowed, have the potential to cause harm to various areas within the digestive system such as oesophageal, gastric, and intestinal perforation. Case description: We report a case of recurrent accidental ingestion of a needle pin by a nursing student. It was found to be lodged in the gastroduodenal junction about two hours after ingestion. She was observed in the hospital for four days and was conservatively managed with laxative. At the time of discharge, abdominal Xray showed the needle was in the large bowel, but her general condition was stable. This is her second accidental ingestion of a needle pin within two years. During this latest episode, she accidentally swallowed a needle pin after putting it in between her lips while adjusting her headscarf. She had no history of medical and mental illness. She was discharged home on day-4 with syrup Lactulose (15 ml TDS). She was advised to continue with faeces observation and to return to the hospital immediately if there is any spike in temperature or increased in abdominal pain which may indicate peritonitis. A repeat Xray a month later showed no needle in her body. Discussion: Like other reported cases, our patient accidentally swallowed her headscarf pin due to the practice of holding needles between the teeth while putting on the wearing headscarves. She was fortunate because the needle was able to pass through her gastrointestinal tract and exit the body though the faeces. Surgical interventions have been reported in other cases. Thus, it is crucial to raise awareness about the risks of accidental needle swallowing and emphasize the importance of seeking prompt medical attention in cases of ingestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]