CPR & first aid certification and training provide you with knowledge and skills for a variety of medical conditions including choking. Choking can be recognized by a person being unable to take a breath due to an obstruction. They may even use the universal symbol for choking by placing their hands on their neck to show that there is an obstruction. Not everyone is able to make a motion or sign for help and may pass out from lack of oxygen to the bloodstream. First aid certificate levels and CPR training can help you learn how to provide help in a variety of different settings.
If you see someone choking, you can ask them if they need assistance. If they motion yes, you can do the Heimlich maneuver on them to help dislodge the obstruction. If you are alone and you are choking, you can perform the Heimlich maneuver on yourself by using a tall chair to help clear the blockage. If you ask someone if they need assistance and they motion no, you may not render aid, but you can call 911 to report that someone appears to be in distress.
Advanced CPR training reminds us that if you find a victim that is not breathing, remember to look inside their mouth for an obstruction before performing CPR. If the victim has lost consciousness due to choking and you did not know and tried to perform CPR, breathing a breath into their mouth could accidently force the obstruction deeper into the throat. If you are unsure, use chest compression only CPR techniques. If there was anything inside the mouth or throat that was blocking an airway, chest compressions would help clear the breathing passages.
Basic life support care certificate programs can be completed online including the testing. With access to coursework and study materials 24/7, you are able to study whenever is most convenient for you. Online training provides additional media support and an opportunity to connect to other individuals who are studying for the same certification.
