Heimlich Maneuver, Part 1

Heimlich (ˈhīmlik) maneuver is the manual application of sudden upward pressure on the upper abdomen on a choking victim to force a foreign object from the trachea. Heimlich maneuver is therefore a life-saving emergency response. It is a simple technique that will dislodge, remove or expel food or choking object from a person’s windpipe or airway. It is done by increasing pressure in the abdomen and chest. Pressure enables the object to be expelled.

If you notice any of these signs on a person: choking, making a gesture for help, cannot breathe or showing loud and difficult breathing, unable to speak, inability to cough effectively, blue or gray color of lips and the fingernail beds, and loss of consciousness, perform the Heimlich maneuver. Do these steps:

1. Approach the person who needs your help. Signal to him that you will perform the Heimlich maneuver.

2. Stand with your legs separated to support your body and maintain balance.

3. Gently wrap your arms around the waist of the choking victim.

4. Slightly lean forward.

5. Make a fist with one hand. It does not matter which hand.

6. Position your hands below the rib cage but above the navel.

7. Wrap your other hand around your fisted hand.

8. Make series of thrusts on the abdomen by pulling inward and upward. It should feel like pulling up the person. Make thrusts quick and forceful.

9. Make five successive thrusts. If the food or object is not dislodged, apply five more.

10. Perform back blows if the object is not dislodged. Deliver five back blows with the use of the heel of your hand. Aim for the area between the shoulder blades.

11. Call for emergency service if object is not expelled. Stay away from the choking person once the emergency service arrives.