Choking
Definition
Choking is due to a foreign object blocking the throat thus making the person
unable to breathe. In infants and children this is commonly either a sweet or
a toy. In adults it invariably is a large piece of food that has been inadequately
chewed.
Signs and Symptoms
- Difficulty in speaking and breathing
- Blueness around the lips and skin (cyanosis)
- Patient pointing or grasping the throat
Treatment
The aim is to remove the obstruction and restore breathing. The technique depends
on the age:
- Baby
- Child
- Adult
- Unconscious adult
Important
Do not use fingers to blindly feel down the throat as the obstruction may become
worse
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Baby
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The baby is laid down face down along the forearm and
given 5 sharp slaps across the back.
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If this fails turn the baby over and on your lap. Give
5 sharp thrusts on the lower breast bone with 2 fingers only.
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Check the airway and remove the foreign body.
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If unsuccessful repeat the procedure. Do not use abdominal
thrusts on a baby.
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Child
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Lay the child face down across your lap and give 5 sharp
slaps between the shoulder blades.
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If this fails turn the child over onto your lap using
1 hand give 5 sharp thrusts to the lower breast bone.
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Check the mouth and remove any foreign body you can
see.
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If choking persists give 5 firm upward thrusts to the
central upper abdomen. Repeat the cycle.
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Adult
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Position yourself behind the casualty and give 5 sharp
slaps between the shoulder blades.
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If this fails perform the Heimlich manoeuvre or abdominal
thrusts. This involves interlocking your hands : the hand that is
resting against the persons abdomen should be in a fist just below
the breast bone. Pull sharply inwards and upwards to the upper part
of the abdomen. Repeat the abdominal thrusts 3 or 4 times. Continue
the back slaps and abdominal thrusts alternately.
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