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Adult choking

Critical

⚠️ Check: Is the area safe for you to approach?

Back blows, then belly thrusts. Repeat until it comes out or they collapse.

Step 1: Ask loudly: "Are you choking?" — if they cannot speak, act immediately
Step 2: Give up to 5 sharp back blows between the shoulder blades
Step 3: If that fails, give up to 5 abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver)
Step 4: Alternate back blows and abdominal thrusts until the object comes out or they become unresponsive
Step 5: If they collapse — call 112 and start CPR

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT give back blows if they are coughing forcefully — coughing may clear it on its own.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT finger-sweep blindly in the mouth — you may push the object deeper.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT give water or try to make them swallow anything.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT stop after one or two attempts if they still cannot breathe.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Shout for someone to call 112 while you help. Say: "Adult choking — not breathing properly."
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — If alone and the person collapses — call 112 on speaker and begin CPR.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Even after the object is out, they need medical check — airway swelling or leftover pieces can still be dangerous.

Call 112 if the object does not come out, they become unresponsive, or they are still struggling to breathe after dislodging.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Always get medical evaluation after successful choking rescue — hidden injury or swelling can occur.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — If they become unresponsive — this is cardiac arrest until proven otherwise. CPR immediately.

This helper does not contact emergency services. You must call yourself.

Adult choking — Do This Now | AidNow