Performing the Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is a life-saving technique used to help a choking person who is unable to breathe due to an obstructed airway. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on an adult or child:
1. Assess the Situation:
- Quickly determine if the person is genuinely choking. Look for signs of severe distress, such as clutching their throat, inability to speak, or a bluish discoloration of the lips and face.
2. Ask for Consent:
- If the person is conscious and you suspect they are choking, obtain their consent to help by asking, "Are you choking? Can I help you?"
3. Stand Behind the Person:
- Position yourself behind the choking person and make sure they are standing or sitting upright.
4. Make a Fist:
- Form a fist with one hand and place the thumb side against the middle of the person's abdomen, just above the navel (belly button).
5. Grasp with Other Hand:
- With your other hand, grasp your fist and ensure it's well-anchored.
6. Perform Abdominal Thrusts:
- Deliver quick, upward thrusts with your hands and fist, using your upper body strength. The goal is to force air from the person's lungs to dislodge the obstructing object.
- Use a strong, upward motion as if you were trying to lift the person off the ground.
- Perform abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled, or the person becomes unconscious.
7. Monitor the Person:
- After each thrust, check if the object has been cleared. Look for signs of breathing or coughing.
- If the person becomes unconscious, start CPR immediately and follow emergency protocols.
8. Seek Medical Help:
- Even if the person appears to have expelled the obstruction, seek medical attention to ensure there is no residual damage or risk of infection.
9. If the Person Becomes Unconscious:
- If the person loses consciousness, gently lower them to the ground and begin CPR. Follow the guidelines for adult or child CPR, depending on the individual's age.
10. Continue Until Help Arrives: - Continue CPR and first aid until professional medical help arrives or until the person begins breathing on their own.
Remember, performing the Heimlich maneuver should be done with caution and only when necessary. If the person can cough forcefully, encourage them to keep coughing to try and clear the obstruction on their own. If you're unsure or if your attempts are unsuccessful, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately for professional assistance.
