Thursday, December 9, 2010

HELPING A CHOKING ADULT

(Source: Straits Times 9 Dec)

Know what to do when someone chokes on food. Learn how to perform the Heimlich Manoeuvre for CHOKING ADULTS.

A choking victim can't speak or breathe and needs your help immediately. Follow these steps to help a choking victim:

1.From behind, wrap your arms around the victim's waist.

2.Make a fist and place the thumb side of your fist against the victim's upper abdomen, below the ribcage and above the navel.

3.Grasp your fist with your other hand and press into their upper abdomen with a quick upward thrust. Do not squeeze the ribcage; confine the force of the thrust to your hands.

4.Repeat until object is expelled.

If you prefer to view the procedure, this YouTube clip shows you how.



For more on how to perform the Heimlich Manoeuvre on choking infants, and on yourself if you are alone, visit the Heimlich Institute website.

Do's and Don'ts:
  1. Chew your food properly before swallowing.
  2. Avoid laughing or talking loudly while eating.
  3. Avoid taking overly large mouthfuls.

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