Choking - Adult or Child Over 1 Year

See all Pictures & Images

First Aid

1. Ask, "Are you choking? Can you speak?"
   DO NOT perform first aid if the person is coughing forcefully and able to speak -- a strong cough can dislodge the object.
2. Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around the person's waist.
3. Make a fist with one hand. Place the thumb side of your fist just above the person's navel and well below the breastbone.
4. Grasp the fist with your other hand.
5. Make quick, upward and inward thrusts with your fist.
6. Continue these thrusts until the object is dislodged or the victim loses consciousness.

IF THE PERSON LOSES CONSCIOUSNESS

• Lower the person to the floor.
• Call 911 -- or tell someone to call 911.
• Begin CPR.
• If you see something blocking the airway, try to remove it.

FOR PREGNANT OR OBESE PEOPLE

1. Wrap your arms around the person's CHEST.
2. Place your fist on the MIDDLE of the breastbone between the nipples.
3. Make firm, backward thrusts.