Choking

Question 1

If you think someone is choking, what is the first thing you should do and why?

Answer 1

Ask them “Are you choking?”

You are trying to establish if their airwway is partially obstructed or completely obstructed.

Question 2

If someone is able answer you, and is able to speak, cough, and breathe, what does this show?

Answer 2

They have a mild airway obstruction.

Question 3

What might you see if there is a complete airway obstruction?

Answer 3

• Victim unable to speak
• Victim may respond by nodding
• Other signs
  
  • Victim unable to breathe
  • Breathing sounds wheezy
  • Attempts at coughing are silent
  • Victim may be unconscious

Question 4

If there is a mild/partial airway obstruction, what should you do?

Answer 4

Encourage the patient to cough.

Question 5

If the patient has a severe/complete airway obstruction but is concious, what should you do?

Answer 5

• Give up to 5 back-blows
• If unsuccessful give up to 5 abdominal thrusts
• If unsuccessful continue the above cycle

Question 6

If the patient has a complete airway obstruction and is unconcious, what should you do?

Answer 6

• Call for an ambulance
• Start cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR)