The Heimlich Maneuver is an emergency procedure used to help someone who is choking due to a blocked airway. Quick and correct action can dislodge the object and restore normal breathing.
When to Act
- The person cannot speak, cough, or breathe
- The person may clutch their throat or appear distressed
- The person may lose consciousness if the blockage is not cleared
Steps to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver
1. Call for Emergency Help
Call your local emergency number immediately or ask someone nearby to do so while you prepare to help.
2. Position Yourself
Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist. Lean them slightly forward to increase the chance of dislodging the object.
3. Prepare Your Hands
Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the person’s navel, below the ribcage. Grasp your fist with your other hand.
4. Deliver Abdominal Thrusts
Give quick, upward thrusts using your hands to force air from the lungs. This pressure may expel the object from the airway.
5. Continue Until the Object is Dislodged
Repeat the thrusts until the object comes out, the person can breathe or cough again, or emergency help arrives.
Important Note
Do not perform abdominal thrusts on infants under one year. For pregnant or obese individuals, use chest thrusts at the center of the chest.