Responding to Choking Incidents: Step-by-Step Guide
Identifying Choking Incidents
Choking can occur anywhere, including martial arts settings or at home. Here’s how to identify and respond:
- Partial Obstruction: Person can cough, speak, or wheeze despite discomfort.
- Complete Obstruction: Person cannot breathe, may be unable to speak or cough, and is in danger of losing consciousness.
Responding to Partial Obstructions
If the person is coughing and able to breathe:
- Reassure them and encourage coughing to dislodge the object.
- Monitor closely; seek medical help if necessary.
Dealing with Complete Obstructions
If the person cannot breathe and is choking:
- Perform Back Blows: Lean them forward and deliver five sharp blows between the shoulder blades.
- Perform Abdominal Thrusts (Heimlich Manoeuvre): Place a fist above their belly button and thrust inwards and upwards up to five times.
- Repeat Sequence: Alternate between back blows and abdominal thrusts until the obstruction is cleared.
- Call Emergency Services: Call 999 immediately if the obstruction persists or if the person becomes unconscious.
Always monitor the person closely and be prepared to perform CPR if they become unconscious.
Recommended Products For You
Public Access Bleed Control Kit Pro - Large
£80.00 + VAT
Tourni-Key Plus
£7.50 + VAT
HeartSine samaritan PAD 350P - Special Offer -
£760.00 + VAT