(See also Overview of Respiratory Arrest and Airway Establishment and Control.)
Indications
Contraindications
Absolute contraindications:
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Age < 1 year (see How to Treat the Choking Conscious Infant)
Relative contraindications:
Complications
Equipment
Additional Considerations
Positioning
Relevant Anatomy
Step-by-Step Description of Procedure
Determine if there is severe airway obstruction:
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Look for signs such as inability to speak, cough, or breathe adequately.
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Look for hands clutching the throat, which is the Universal Distress Signal of severe airway obstruction.
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Ask: “Are you choking?” If the choking person nods yes and cannot speak, cough, or breathe adequately, that suggests severe airway obstruction and the need for assistance.
Do the Heimlich maneuver:
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Stand directly behind the choking person with arms encircling the patient’s midsection. Clench one fist and place it midway between the umbilicus and xiphoid. Grab the fist with the other hand (see figure Abdominal thrusts with victim standing or sitting).
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Deliver a firm inward and upward thrust by pulling with both arms sharply backward and upward.
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Repeat the thrust 6 to 10 times as needed.
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Continue until obstruction is removed or advanced airway management is available.
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If the person loses consciousness, start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Aftercare
Warnings and Common Errors
Tips and Tricks
More Information
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American Heart Association: Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider Manual. Dallas, American Heart Association, 2016.