Quick Answer
STAY CALM WHILE ADMINISTERING THE HEIMLICH: Remain calm and composed, as a panicked attitude can worsen the situation. Focus on the choking victim and follow the proper Heimlich maneuver technique. This will help prevent injury to both you and the person in distress.
Preparation is Key
Before attempting to relieve the obstruction, make sure you and the choking victim are in a safe location, away from any hazards. If the choking victim is conscious but unable to speak or cough, encourage them to try to cough or make a “help” sound. If they are unconscious, begin CPR if you are trained to do so, but switch to the Heimlich maneuver if they start to show signs of regaining consciousness.
The Heimlich Maneuver Technique
Stand behind the choking victim and wrap your arms under their diaphragm, one hand on top of the other. Make a fist with the top hand and locate the bottom of the breastbone. Grasp your fist with your other hand and perform the Heimlich maneuver: push inward and upward into the diaphragm with a force of about 5-10 pounds, 5-10 times. If the airway remains blocked, repeat the process.
Repeating the Heimlich Maneuver
If the first few attempts at the Heimlich maneuver do not dislodge the object, continue to repeat the process 5-10 times. If the airway remains blocked after several attempts, consider using the back blows method, where you stand behind the victim and deliver a series of 5 quick blows to the middle of their back with the heel of your hand. Repeat the back blows and Heimlich maneuvers in alternating fashion until the airway is cleared.
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