To relieve choking in a responsive individual over the age of one year, the recommended approach is to first give 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts (also known as the Heimlich maneuver). Alternate between these two methods—5 back blows then 5 abdominal thrusts—until the object causing the choking is dislodged or the person can breathe or cough effectively again.
Steps for Back Blows and Abdominal Thrusts:
- Stand behind the person and support their chest with one arm.
- Lean the person forwards slightly.
- Give 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.
- If the object does not come out, perform 5 abdominal thrusts by placing a fist slightly above the person's navel, grasping it with the other hand, and pulling inward and upward sharply.
- Repeat the sequence of 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts as needed.
Special considerations:
- If the person becomes unconscious, call emergency services and begin CPR.
- For pregnant or obese individuals, perform chest thrusts instead of abdominal thrusts by pressing on the middle of the breastbone.
- Do not attempt blind finger sweeps inside the mouth as this may push the object deeper.
This combination of back blows and abdominal thrusts is the standard procedure to clear airway obstruction in responsive individuals over one year old.
