How to handle when children choke on foreign objects

The Heimlich maneuver is an emergency procedure used when a foreign object enters the airway and occupies most of the airway area. The principle of Heimlich is to create a strong, sudden impact force on the two lungs by patting from the back or pressing on the diaphragm, with the aim of creating a sudden large pressure in the respiratory tract to push the foreign object out. Therefore, Heimlich is very effective with foreign objects that occupy most of the airway and are easy to move, such as marbles, candy... while other objects that do not occupy the entire airway or have angular shapes require the help of an ENT specialist to remove the foreign object.

Heimlich is effective from the first blow or thrust on the diaphragm, but becomes less effective over time. Steps to perform:

Step 1: Check if the baby is breathing

- If your baby turns blue, quickly check his chest for up and down movement and listen for breathing.

- If you think your baby is choking on something, try to remove the object with your finger, forming a hook. Only do this if you can see the object in your baby's throat. If you can't see it, never put your finger in, as you may push the object further down the throat.

- You can also use your hand to check your baby's pulse.

- If the child is unconscious, remove anything visible from the child's mouth and begin CPR until an ambulance arrives.

Step 2: Call an ambulance

It's best to have someone else do this, while you begin to clear the blockage from your baby.

Step 3: Pat the back

- Place your baby face down on your forearm, with his head slightly lower than his chest and his arms resting loosely against your legs. Support his head with the palm of your hand. If your baby is too heavy, you can lay him down on your lap.

- Use the heel of your hand to give 5 strong slaps on the back (between the child's shoulder blades).

- Check the mouth for any foreign objects and remove them. If back blows are not effective, switch to chest thrusts.

Step 4: Chest compressions

- Place your baby on your lap with his head lower than his body. Place three fingers of your right hand in the middle of your baby's chest (breastbone, just below the nipple). Your middle finger should be right in the middle of the chest.

- Once you have placed your fingers in the correct place, lift your middle finger and use only your remaining fingers to push up 5 times, firmly.

Step 5: Check baby's mouth again and remove foreign objects

Check to see if the baby is breathing. If not, continue performing back blows and chest compressions until the ambulance arrives.

According to VnExpress.net - PC