Heimlich Maneuver Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Heimlich Maneuver - Essay Example A rescuer should apply Heimlich maneuver only when he notices that the choking person is not able to talk or cough, is holding on to his throat which could signal difficulty in breathing or when the victim’s lips turn blue indicating that he is unable to breathe. As a general rule, one has to contact 911 before the emergency method is given just in case further treatment is needed. After observing any of the aforementioned signs, explain to the victim that you are going to help him clear his airway by applying the Heimlich maneuver. The rescuer then helps the victim on his feet and move behind him making a fist with one hand and placing it on the victim’s belly button and anchoring it with the other hand. He should make five quick upward thrusts, in a J-like movement to allow air to push the obstruction from the airway. Check to see if the obstruction is dislodged, if not, repeat the process. When the victim coughs, stop the procedure because this would indicate that the victim is able to breathe. In case the blockage is not removed and the victim losses consciousness, help the victim down to the floor carefully and let him lie down on prone position, that is, his back on the floor. The rescuer should continue to attempt dislodging the obstruction until professional help arrives. He should let air move up to the victim’s windpipe to get the foreign object out of the airway.