First Aid Certification Manual: Choking
- 1. Introduction
- 2. Get to Know Your First Aid Kit
- 3. Recognition & Protective Gear
- 4. Medical Emergencies
- 5. Medical Emergencies II
- 6. Trauma Emergencies
- 7. Trauma Emergencies II
- 8. Choking
- 9. Choking Procedures for Adults & Children
- 10. Choking Procedures for Infants
- 11. Aftercare
- 12. Common Mistakes
- 13. Conclusion
- MyCPR Now™ Glossary
WHAT CHOKING MEANS
A choking emergency occurs when the airway of a choking person is partially or completely blocked from allowing air to pass into the lungs by a foreign object. These types of incidences would require quick action intervention from bystanders to assist the choking person.
HOW TO KNOW IF THERE IS A PARTIAL AIRWAY OBSTRUCTION
Victims often use what is called the universal choking sign. It is when the victim clutches his/her neck or throat area with both hands indicating a severe airway obstruction. This sign is commonly seen in a choking adult and should prompt immediate first aid action.
WHY A CHOKING HAZARD MATTERS
Choking is the fourth leading cause of unintentional injury death. First aid techniques such as abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, are crucial. Thousands of people die from choking every year. In addition to abdominal thrusts, back blows can also be effective in dislodging the obstruction. Knowing first aid for choking and how to perform the Heimlich maneuver properly can make the difference between life and death. For certain individuals, such as pregnant or obese persons, chest thrusts may be a more appropriate technique.