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Choking Emergency: Recognition and Response (Heimlich & CPR)

1. Assess

  • Universal choking sign: hands clutching throat
  • Can they cough/speak? → Encourage coughing (do NOT interfere).
  • Cannot cough/speak/breathe → Act immediately.

2. Heimlich Maneuver (Abdominal Thrusts) – Conscious Adult/Child >1yr

  1. Stand behind; wrap arms around waist.
  2. Fist thumb-side against abdomen, just above navel, below sternum.
  3. Grasp fist with other hand; quick, upward thrusts (6–10).
  4. Repeat until object expelled or person becomes unconscious.

3. If Unconscious – Start CPR

  1. Lower to firm surface; call 911/get AED.
  2. 30 chest compressions (center of chest, 2" deep, 100–120/min).
  3. Open airway; check mouth for visible object (remove only if seen).
  4. 2 rescue breaths (or continue compressions if untrained).
  5. Repeat cycles until object clears, breathing returns, or EMS arrives.

Special Populations

  • Pregnant/obese: Chest thrusts (not abdominal)
  • Infant <1yr: 5 back blows + 5 chest thrusts (alternating)

Take a certified CPR/First Aid course for hands-on practice.

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