Quick Steps to Help in a Choking Emergency
Choking happens when an object lodges in the throat or windpipe, blocking the
flow of air. In adults, a piece of food is usually to blame. Young children often
choke on small objects. Choking prevents normal breathing, which means the
supply of oxygen to the brain is interrupted. This life-threatening situation may
result in serious consequences if not addressed promptly.
Symptoms of Choking
Inability to speak, coughing, gagging, difficulty in breathing, skin, lips and nails
turning blue or grey and loss of consciousness.
Administering First Aid- Adults
- Encourage the person to cough: Coughing might naturally remove the
stuck object.
- Give five back blows: Place your arm across the person's chest to
support the person's body. Bend the person over at the waist to face the
ground. Strike five times with the base of your hand between the person's
shoulder blades. This action will throw out the obstruction from the
throat.
- Give five abdominal thrusts: If back blows don't remove the stuck
object, give five abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich
manoeuvre.
How to perform Abdominal Thrusts:
- Stand behind the person: Place one foot slightly in front of the
other for balance. Wrap your arms around their waist. Tip the
person forward slightly.
- Make a fist with one hand: Place it just above the person's navel.
- Grasp your fist with the other hand: Press into the stomach i.e.
abdomen, with a quick, upward thrust as if trying to lift the person
up.
- After giving five abdominal thrusts check if the blockage has
been removed. Repeat as needed.
If you are alone and choking:
- Place a fist slightly above your navel.
- Grasp your fist with the other hand.
- Bend over a hard surface. A countertop or chair will do.
- Shove your fist inward and upward.
Remember, staying calm and acting quickly is crucial when dealing with a
choking emergency.
Regularly updating your knowledge of first aid techniques can help you respond
effectively in such critical situations.
