Use back blows for choking in adults and children over 1
For a conscious adult or child over 1 year who cannot speak or breathe well, give 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts.
Costsfree · minutes · no willpower needed
Getslarge health benefit
EvidenceB
Last checked
What it costs
Immediate attention to the choking person; the source describes a first-aid response rather than a purchase.
What you get
For an adult or child over 1 year who is conscious and cannot speak or is having a hard time breathing, MedlinePlus says to repeat 5 back blows followed by 5 abdominal thrusts until the object comes out or the person becomes unconscious.
Notes
For pregnant or obese people, the source says chest thrusts should be done instead of abdominal thrusts. This page covers adults and children over age 1 year who have not lost alertness; infants need different guidance.
Sources
- MedlinePlus — Choking - adult or child over 1 year