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  1. Older Child and Adult Choking

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Dealing with Choking: Techniques for Children and Adults

Understanding Choking in Different Age Groups

Although this course primarily covers choking in children and infants, the techniques for older children and adults are similar:

  • Mild Airway Obstruction: Includes discomfort and possible pain from objects like fishbones stuck in the throat.
  • Severe Airway Obstruction: Complete blockage, causing inability to breathe, talk, or cough.

Actions for Mild Airway Obstruction

If the person can talk and cough:

  • Keep them calm and encourage coughing to dislodge the object.
  • Check the mouth and remove the obstruction if visible.

Dealing with Severe Airway Obstruction

When the person cannot breathe, talk, or cough:

  • Stand behind them and provide 5 back-blows between the shoulder blades.
  • If unsuccessful, perform 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre).
  • Alternate between back-blows and abdominal thrusts until the obstruction clears.

Emergency Steps if Obstruction Persists

If the obstruction remains:

  • Call emergency services and maintain communication.
  • If unconscious, guide them safely to the floor and initiate CPR.

After Clearing the Obstruction

If successful in clearing the airway:

  • Sit the person down and monitor their condition.
  • Seek medical evaluation to check for any injuries caused by the procedure.