In our Precious Hearts CPR Skills Sessions, not only do we cover CPR techniques, but dealing with choking symptoms is also covered. CPR becomes valuable if someone begins not to respond. The following is a cheat sheet about first aid for choking victims.
When dealing with a choking incident, one must assess the situation from three standpoints:
1- Mild vs. Severe Choking
Categorizing between Mild vs. Severe Choking depends on the symptoms a victim is showing. Mild choking consists of someone making sounds and coughing loudly. If this is the case, allow the victim to cough and work out the interference themselves.
If sever choking is occurring, the symptoms will consist of inability to breathe, has a cough with no sound, cannot talk to make sounds, and making the choking sign.
2- How to Help a Choking Adult
If the victim is assessed and shows symptoms of severe choking, give Heimlich thrusts just above the belly button. This can help remove the object from the airway. Thrusts are done by 1) getting behind the person, 2) Making a fist with one hand, 3) Grasping the fist with the other hand and giving quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen.
If the victim is pregnant and in the final stages, place your fist on the lower half of the breastbone.
3- How to Help a Choking Adult Who Stops Responding
The first response once someone stops responding to the thrusts is to begin CPR. After each set of 30 compressions, check the airway for objects. Continue until they respond or a medical professional arrives.
