BLS Certification Manual: Choking
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Recognizing Cardiac Arrest
- 3. Positioning & Pulse Check
- 4. Compressions for Adults
- 5. Compressions for Infants & Children
- 6. Ventilation Equipment
- 7. Ventilations for Adults
- 8. Ventilations for Infants & Children
- 9. AED Usage
- 10. AED Special Circumstances
- 11. Choking
- 12. Choking Procedures for Adults & Children
- 13. Choking Procedures for Infants
- 14. Team Roles
- 15. Effective Team Dynamics
- 16. Common Mistakes
- 17. Conclusion
- MyCPR Now™ Glossary
Understanding Choking
Choking occurs when a foreign object partially or completely blocks the airway. Recognizing the difference between mild and severe airway obstruction determines the appropriate response.
If the person is responsive, identify yourself and ask permission to help when possible. For a child or infant, obtain permission from a parent or guardian when available. If the person is unable to respond during a life-threatening emergency, consent is generally implied, and lifesaving care should not be delayed.
Mild Airway Obstruction
A person with a mild obstruction may still be able to:
- Cough forcefully
- Speak
- Cry
- Breathe
Encourage continued coughing and monitor closely. Do not interfere with an effective cough.
Severe Airway Obstruction
Possible signs include:
- Inability to speak or cry
- Inability to breathe effectively
- Weak or silent cough
- High-pitched or absent breathing sounds
- Blue or gray skin or lips
- Increasing weakness
- Loss of responsiveness
A person experiencing severe choking will often instinctively clutch their throat with one or both hands. This is known as the universal choking sign and is a clear indication of severe airway obstruction requiring immediate action.
Agonal gasps — irregular, gasping breaths that do not provide effective airflow — may occur but should not be mistaken for normal breathing.
Activate Emergency Response
For severe choking, activate emergency medical services promptly. If other responders are present, assign one to call for help while another begins choking care.
If the Person Becomes Unresponsive
Begin CPR starting with chest compressions. Each time the airway is opened for ventilation, look for a visible object. Remove an object only if it can be clearly seen and easily reached. Do not perform a blind finger sweep.