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First Aid for Choking: How to Save a Life in Seconds

First Aid for Choking: How to Save a Life in Seconds

Choking is a life-threatening emergency that can happen to anyone at any time. Knowing how to respond quickly and effectively can make the difference between life and death. This guide will teach you the essential steps for providing first aid to someone who is choking, helping you save a life in seconds.

1. Recognising the Signs of Choking

The first step in providing aid is recognising that someone is choking:

Signs of Severe Choking:

Signs of Mild Choking:

2. First Aid for Adults and Children Over One Year Old

If the person is unable to cough, speak, or breathe, immediate action is needed:

Step 1: Ask for Permission

If the person is conscious, ask them if they’re choking and if you can help. If they nod or cannot respond verbally, proceed with first aid.

Step 2: Deliver Back Blows

Step 3: Perform Abdominal Thrusts (used to be referred to as the Heimlich Manoeuvre)

Step 4: Call 999

If the person is still choking after trying back blows and abdominal thrusts, or if they become unresponsive, call 999 immediately. Continue with the first aid until emergency services arrive.

3. First Aid for Infants Under One Year Old

For infants, the procedure is slightly different due to their smaller size and fragility:

Step 1: Position the Infant

Step 2: Deliver Back Blows

Step 3: Perform Chest Thrusts

Step 4: Call 999

If the object is not dislodged or the infant becomes unresponsive, call 999 immediately and continue with the first aid until help arrives.

4. What to Do If the Person Becomes Unresponsive

If the person becomes unresponsive, it’s essential to start CPR immediately:

Step 1: Call for Help

Ensure someone has called 999 or do so yourself if you are alone.

Step 2: Start CPR

Step 3: Continue CPR

Continue CPR until the person shows signs of life, such as breathing or movement, or until emergency medical services take over.

5. Preventing Choking

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to prevent choking:

Conclusion

Choking is a critical emergency that requires immediate action. By knowing how to provide first aid for choking, you can act quickly and effectively to save a life. Familiarise yourself with these techniques, and consider taking a first aid course to gain hands-on experience and confidence in performing these life-saving procedures.

 

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