Choking

What is it?

When an object lodges in the throat or windpipe blocking the flow of air.

Signs/Symptoms:

Plan of Action:

The American Red Cross recommends the following steps:
Some sources only teach the abdominal thrust. It's OK not to use back blows if you haven't learned the back-blow technique. Both approaches are acceptable for adults and children older than age 1.
To give abdominal thrusts to someone else:
If you're the only rescuer, give back blows and abdominal thrusts first. Then call 911 or your local emergency number for help. If another person is there, have that person call for help while you give first aid.
If the person becomes unconscious, start standard cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with chest compressions and rescue breaths.
If the person is pregnant or if you can't get your arms around the stomach, give chest thrusts:
To clear the airway of an unconscious person:
To clear the airway of a choking infant younger than age 1:
If you're alone and choking:
Call 911 or your local emergency number right away. Then, give yourself abdominal thrusts, also called the Heimlich maneuver, to remove the stuck object.
To prepare yourself for these situations, learn the Heimlich maneuver and CPR in a certified first-aid training course.

Revision #2
Created 6 March 2023 14:14:13
Updated 7 April 2023 16:45:28