Choking: How to Save a Life in an Emergency
Choking accidents can be severe and, in some cases, even fatal. It occurs when an object gets lodged in the throat and obstructs the airway, making breathing difficult. Various objects, including food, toys, or small household items, can cause choking hazards.
The exact number of deaths from choking accidents varies depending on factors such as age, gender, and underlying health conditions.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, an average of 4,800 people died from choking each year between 2010 and 2017.
In New Zealand, the Ministry of Health reported that between 2002 and 2016, there were 431 choking-related deaths. The data showed that children under the age of five and older adults over the age of 75 were at the highest risk of choking-related death.
It’s important to note that these statistics only reflect reported cases and may not account for all choking-related incidents. Choking accidents can happen quickly and without warning, making knowing how to respond in an emergency is essential.
Learning first aid techniques and knowing how to help in case of airway obstruction can help prevent choking accidents from becoming fatal.
The first step in treating a choking victim is to assess the situation and determine whether the person can cough or speak. If the person can cough or speak, they may be able to clear the object from their throat on their own. If the person cannot cough or speak, immediate intervention is necessary.
Send for an ambulance and perform a sequence of back blows and chest thrusts.
To perform back blows, position yourself beside and slightly behind the choking person and deliver up to five firm blows between their shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. If the object remains lodged, move on to chest thrusts by placing the hand on the centre of the chest and the other hand on top of the first hand and give up to five chest thrusts. These are similar to chest compressions but sharper and delivered slower.
Repeat the sequence of back blows and chest thrusts until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious. If they become unconscious, begin CPR immediately.
It’s important to note that this technique may differ for infants under one year of age. In this case, the sequence involves delivering up to five back blows, followed by up to five chest thrusts with two fingers on the lower half of the breastbone.
Knowing this technique can help save lives in emergency situations. At The First Aid training Company, we believe that everyone should have the skills and knowledge to respond effectively in a first aid situation. That’s why we cover choking management in all our first aid courses, including using back blows and chest thrusts as recommended by the New Zealand Resuscitation Council.
Registering for one of our courses gives you the confidence and practical skills needed to handle emergencies, including choking accidents. Don’t wait until it’s too late — sign up for a first aid course with us today and help save a life.