Quick Answer
If you witness someone choking, encourage them to cough to dislodge the object. If this doesn't work, use the Heimlich maneuver to relieve the obstruction. For infants, use the back blows technique.
The Heimlich Maneuver
Perform the Heimlich maneuver by standing behind the person and wrapping your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand and place the other hand on top of it, just above the belly button. Grasp your fist with your other hand and give it a quick upward thrust. Repeat this motion until the object is dislodged. For adults and children over 1 year old, perform 5 to 10 thrusts. If the person becomes unconscious or their face turns blue, call 911 or your local emergency services for help.
Back Blows for Infants
For infants under 1 year old, use the back blows technique to relieve the obstruction. Sit on the floor with the baby facing up on your forearm. Support the baby’s head and shoulders with your hand. Use the heel of your hand to give 5 quick back blows between the shoulder blades. If the object is not dislodged, turn the baby over and perform the Heimlich maneuver. For infants, 5 back blows should be performed before attempting the Heimlich maneuver.
Additional Tips
When performing the Heimlich maneuver, make sure to stand behind the person and have a clear path to give the thrusts. If you’re performing the back blows on an infant, make sure to support the baby’s head and shoulders. If the person becomes unconscious or their face turns blue, do not give up – continue to perform the necessary techniques until help arrives.
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