It is important to note that choking occurs if the airway is suddenly blocked either partially or completely which makes it hard to breathe.
Mild choking
In case the airway is only partially blocked, the individual is able to cry, speak, cough or breathe. The individual is able to clear the blockage themselves.
- Encourage the individual to continue coughing in an attempt to clear up the blockage.
- Instruct the individual to spit the object out if it is in the mouth.
- Do not place your fingers inside the mouth of the individual since he/she might bite accidentally.
If coughing does not work, you can deliver back blows.
Severe choking
If the choking is severe, the individual could not cry, speak, cough or even breathe. Without assistance, he/she will eventually lose consciousness.
Steps when helping an adult or child over a year old
- Stand behind the individual, slightly to one side and support his/her chest using one hand. Lean the individual forward so that the object blocking the airway will come out of the mouth instead of moving further down.
- Deliver 5 blows amidst the shoulder blades using the heel of the hand.
- Check if the blockage has cleared.
- If the blockage is still present, perform 5 abdominal thrusts.
Do not perform abdominal thrust on infants below a year old or on pregnant women.
When performing the abdominal thrusts, the following steps are followed:
- Stand behind the choking individual
- Position your arms around the waist and bend him/her forward
- Hold one fist and place it over the belly button
- Place the other hand over the fist and tug abruptly inwardly and up
- This movement is repeated up to 5 times
In case the airway of the individual is still blocked after performing back blows and abdominal thrusts, seek medical help right away by calling for emergency assistance. Continue to perform the cycle of 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts until the emergency team arrives.
Remember that the abdominal thrusts can result to serious injuries. In cases where this life-saving measure is needed, the doctor should always assess the individual after.
More Information / Disclaimer
The information posted on this page on choking is for learning purposes only. Learn to recognize and manage choking by taking a standard first aid course with Toronto First Aid.