When a child chokes, every second counts. This article guides you through the crucial signs of choking and the immediate steps to take. Learn the essential choking first aid techniques that could save a child’s life. Be prepared, be confident, and make a difference when it matters most.
Identifying Choking Signs and Symptoms in Child
Recognize a severe airway block in a child by these signs:
- Holding throat with hand(s)
- Weak or no cough
- Has a cough that has no sound
- High-pitched squeaking noises when breathing or no sound
- Pale or blue skin color
- Unable to breathe, cough, speak, cry or make sounds
- Appearances of panic, confusion, or surprise
Child Choking Rescue: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Positioning
- Stand to the side and slightly behind the child.
- If the child is small, kneel behind him instead of standing.
Step 2: Give 5 Firm Back Blows
- Give 5 firm back blows using the heel of your hand to strike between the child’s shoulder blades.
Step 3: If no improvement, ensure the child is standing up straight.
Step 4: Prepare for Abdominal Thrusts
- Move directly behind the child.
- Slightly bend your knees for better balance and support.
Step 5: Give 5 Abdominal Thrusts just above the navel
- Pull inward and upward each time.
Step 6: Repeat If Necessary
Repeat giving 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts until:
- The obstruction is cleared.
- The child can cough, cry, or speak.
- The child becomes unresponsive.
If the child becomes unresponsive, perform CPR:
Step 1: Shout for help
- If possible, send someone to call 9-1-1 or do it yourself.
Step 2: Place the child on his back on a firm, flat surface.
Step 3: Give 30 Chest Compressions
- Push down hard and fast in the center of the chest (just below the nipple line) at a rate of 100 to 120 compressions per minute.
- Give 30 compressions per set, using 1 or 2 hands.
For a larger child: Place the heel of one hand in the center of the chest. Put your other hand on top, interlace your fingers, and keep them off the chest.
For a smaller child: Use one hand for CPR. Place the heel of your hand in the center of the child’s chest.
- Each compression should be about 2 inches deep.
- Do not pause compressions for more than 10 seconds.
After each compression set and before attempting breaths:
- Open the child’s mouth.
- Check for visible objects.
- If an object is seen, gently remove it with your pinky.
- Never do a pinky sweep unless the object is visible.
Step 4: Give 2 breaths
- Open the child’s airway.
- Give 2 quick breaths into the child’s mouth, each lasting about 1 second.
Step 5: Repeat sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths until:
- The child shows signs of life (moves, cries, speaks, blinks, or reacts).
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrive.
If you are alone without a cell phone:
Step 1: Place the child on a firm, flat surface.
Step 2: Give 5 sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths.
Step 3: Call 9-1-1
- After completing 5 sets, go to call 9-1-1.
- If available, get an AED. Turn it on upon arrival and follow the prompts to use it immediately.
Step 4: Return and Continue CPR
- Repeat sets of 30 compressions and 2 breaths
- Check the child’s mouth for objects after each set of compressions.
- Carefully remove any visible objects with your pinky.
- Keep performing CPR until:
- The child shows signs of life (moves, cries, speaks, blinks, or reacts).
- Emergency Medical Services (EMS) arrive.