Choking Prevention and Response

DeDe Meritt, RN

Aug 1

2 min read

Choking occurs when an object blocks an individual’s airway, where it prevents air from reaching the lungs and causing a life-threatening emergency if the oxygen supply is cut off. A person is choking if they can’t speak, cough, or breathe. Or if they show signs of panic, such as grabbing at their throat, wheezing, or turning blue.

Key prevention strategies include cutting food into smaller pieces, chewing thoroughly, and keeping small objects away from children, with appropriate supervision.

First aid for a conscious person over age 1 involves abdominal thrusts (The Heimlich maneuver) and back blows, while unconscious individuals require CPR.

If the person is conscious and over 1 years old: Ask if they are choking and if they can speak. Do not interfere if the person is coughing forcefully and able to speak. Give 5 back blows by bending the person slightly forward to parallel the ground. Give 5 quick thumps between their shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. Give 5 abdominal thrusts (The Heimlich maneuver): Position yourself behind the person, reaching around their waist. Place your fist, thumb side in, just above their navel (belly button). Grasp your fist with your other hand and give quick, upward and inward thrusts. CALL 911 if the obstruction isn’t cleared. REPEAT back blows and abdominal thrusts until the object is dislodged or the person loses consciousness.

For infants under 1 year old: A different method is used for infants where you would perform 5 back blows alternating with 5 chest thrusts. Do not perform these steps if the infant is coughing forcefully or has a strong cry.

First aid for an unconscious person: Make sure to lower the person to a firm, flat surface. CALL 911. BEGIN CPR.

Brain damage can occur in as little as 4 to 6 minutes without oxygen, making rapid first aid crucial. Perform abdominal thrusts only in ACTUAL emergencies. Consider taking a certified first-aid course to learn and practice these life-saving techniques.

On television recently I saw an ad for a choking device called “Life vac.” This device can be used to save a life, even your own, in the event of a choking emergency. It comes with an adult sized mask and a pediatric one. There are 3 steps to using such a device: 1) PLACE appropriate sized mask over nose and mouth and create a good deal. 2) PUSH while holding mask in place, use your other hand to push the handle down. 3) PULL without breaking the seal, pull handle upward in a short, swift motion. This unit comes with a practice mask so you will be ready. There is a free replacement if you ever have to use the real thing in an emergency! It is around $70 for one such device, but it is worth it to have on hand!

Have a happy day!