Caring For An Adult Who is Choking

  • If the person can speak or is coughing forcefully encourage the person to keep coughing.
  • If the person can’t speak and is coughing weakly obtain consent to take the additional steps..
  • Stand behind the person and slightly to the side.
  • Place one arm across the person’s chest and bend the person forward. 
  • Firmly strike the person’s back between their shoulder blades with the heel of your palm.
  • Have the person stand up straight. 
  • Stand behind them and wrap your arms around them.
  • With one hand make a fist and place it just above their navel. Cover the fist with your other hand.
  • Pull inward and upward to give an abdominal thrust.
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