First Aid for Choking (Heimlich Maneuver)

The Heimlich maneuver can be used to clear an object blocking the airway in conscious adults and children ages 1 to 8. It lifts the diaphragm and forces air from the lungs to push the object that blocks the airway up and out.

For Persons Over 8 Years Old

1. Ask, "Are you choking?" The person may use the choking sign. Do not interfere if he or she can speak, cough, or breathe.
2. If not able to speak, cough, or breathe, reach around the person's waist from behind. Make a fist. Place it above the navel, but below the rib cage. Grasp your fist with your other hand. Press your fist into person's abdomen and give 5 quick, upward thrusts.

1. Repeat upward thrusts until the object is forced out or the person becomes unconscious. If the object is removed with success, the person should see a doctor as soon as possible.
2. If the person becomes unconscious, shout for help! Call 9-1-1! Tilt the head back and lift the chin to open and check the airway. {Note: If you suspect the person has a head, neck, or spine injury, do not move him or her. Pull the lower jaw forward to open the airway.} Give 2 slow rescue breaths. If this doesn't help, tilt the head further back (if no head, neck, or spine injury). Give 2 rescue breaths again. If the person does not respond or move, give 15 chest compressions. Repeat rescue breaths and chest compressions. Each time you open the airway to give rescue breaths, check the person's mouth for the object and remove it if you can. Do CPR as needed, until the object blocking the airway is forced out or until medical help takes over.
3. Even when the object is removed with success, the person should see a doctor as soon as possible.

For Children Ages 1 to 8

1. For a conscious child, give abdominal thrusts as for adults. Don't be too forceful.
2. For an unconscious child, give first aid for choking as for an adult.

For Babies Up to 1 Year Old

1. Do not interfere if the baby coughs strongly, cries, or breathes okay.
2. If the baby is conscious, hold the baby's head (face down) in one hand. Straddle the baby over your forearm. Rest your forearm on your leg for support. Keep the baby's head lower than the rest of his or her body.
3. With the heel of your free hand, hit the baby on the back between the shoulder blades 5 times. Use quick, forceful motions. Repeat this procedure 3 to 4 times. If the object still blocks the airway, go to step 4.