Check
Inspect the scene for safety. Then, verify if the victim is conscious. Call 911 if they’re unresponsive.
Clear
Ensure the person is on their back and the airway is not obstructed. The victim should be lying on a flat surface.
Compress
Perform chest compressions. Place your hands in the center of the chest. Push hard and fast, 100-120 compressions per minute.
Airway
Open the victim’s airway. Tilt their head back slightly to lift the chin.
Breath
Provide rescue breaths. Pinch the victim’s nose shut and breathe into the mouth until the chest rises.
Repeat
Continue cycles of compressions and breaths until EMS arrives or the victim shows signs of life.
Choking
1.
Recognition of Choking
An essential initial step in aiding someone who is choking is recognizing the signs. These often include hand signals toward the throat, a panicked expression, inability to cough or speak effectively. Timely recognition can increase the chances of positive outcomes.
2.
Perform Heimlich Maneuver
The Heimlich maneuver is an effective method for clearing obstructed airways. Stand behind person and wrap arms around them, making a fist just above their navel. Then perform sharp inward and upward thrusts to dislodge the blocking object.
3.
Aftercare and Further Assistance
Once the object is dislodged, comfort person and suggest medical follow up. Even if choking relief is successful, professional healthcare may be necessary to ensure no internal injuries occurred during the choking event.
Drowning
In situations of drowning emergencies, knowing simple but vital steps can potentially save a life. In our Drowning section, we discuss prominent techniques such as Rescue Breathing, Chest Compressions, and Recovery Position, which can be effectively utilized until help arrives.