The Heimlich maneuver is a first-aid method used when someone is choking. Dr. Heimlich discovered that the remaining air in a persons lungs could be used to free a foreign object from their esophagus using quick, upward thrusts under their ribcage.
When To Use The Heimlich
The Heimlich should only be used if the victim is conscious and choking. A person is choking when they are unable to ask for help or respond to questions like, “Are you choking?”
If a person can speak, cough, or breathe, do not administer the Heimlich.
How To Administer The Heimlich On Adults
When administering the Heimlich, follow these steps in order:
- Step 1: Stand behind the victim and put your arms around their abdomen
- Step 2: Make a fist with one hand and clasp your fist with the other hand tightly
- Step 3: Place the thumb side of your fist below their ribcage; about 2 inches above their belly button
- And, Step 4: Sharply and quickly thrust your hands inward and upward 5 times
Repeat step 4 until the object is dislodged or if the victim becomes unconscious. If the victim becomes unconscious, perform CPR.
How To Administer The Heimlich On Pregnant or Obese People
The Heimlich for those who are pregnant or are obese is the same for adults, just slightly altered. Rather than thrusting on their abdomen, place your thrusts on their sternum.
How To Administer The Heimlich On Yourself
If you begin choking and no one is near, perform the Heimlich on yourself.
- Make a fist with one hand and clasp the fist with your other hand tightly
- Place the thumb side of your fist below your ribcage; 2 inches above the belly button
- And, sharply and quickly thrust your hands inward and outward five times
Repeat these steps until the object is dislodged.
You may also lean over a chair, table edge, or railing and sharply and quickly thrust your upper abdominal area against the edge.
How To Administer The Heimlich On Toddlers/Children
If a child is younger than 5 or weighs less than 45lbs, alter the Heimlich slightly. Kneel behind the child to lower yourself to their level and apply less pressure when performing the maneuver than you would for adults.
How To Administer The Heimlich On Babies
The Heimlich is not recommended for infants 12 months or younger. Back slaps or back blows are the preferred method. To perform this method:
- Turn the baby face down with their chest resting on your forearm or thigh; ensure their head is lower than their body
- With the heel of your hand, strike the baby between their shoulder blades 5 times; the strike should be firm but not enough to cause injuries
- And, check the baby’s mouth and remove visible objects, if possible
If their airway is still blocked:
- Turn them face up with their head down
- Use your second and third fingers to give 5 inward and upward chest thrusts about 1/2 to 1 1/2 inches into their sternum
- And, check their mouth for visible objects and remove the object if present
Repeat these steps until the object is dislodged. If the baby becomes unconscious, perform CPR.
Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides information on potential choking hazards for young children.
Conclusion
Knowing how to properly administer the Heimlich maneuver can be a lifesaver in emergencies. By remaining calm and acting quickly, you can help clear a person’s airway and prevent choking from becoming a life-threatening situation.