Suffocation occurs when the upper airway is blocked and the victim cannot breathe. There are two options:
- If the adult is conscious but cannot speak, cough, or breathe, it is necessary to give up to 5 strokes on the abdomen. One must stand behind the victim, encircling the waist with the arms. Close one hand into a fist and place it on the victim’s navel. Press the fist into the abdomen with 5 quick blows, each of which should represent a separate effort to remove the object. After 5 blows, it is good to check the victim and repeat the 5 blows until the victim expels the object and begins to breathe. If the victim is a pregnant woman or an obese person put the arms under the armpits while standing behind them. Place the fist on the middle part of the sternum, grasp the fist with the other hand and exert the 5 compressions.
- If an adult is unconscious and mouth-to-mouth respiration has failed to get air into the lungs give 5 strokes on the abdomen. To do this, straddle the victim and place the lower part of your palm in the center of the victim’s abdomen. Overlap the other hand and press inward with 5 quick strokes on the abdomen. At this point use the thumb and other fingers to grasp the victim’s jaw and tongue. If the object is reached, grab it and remove it. If the airway remains obstructed, alternate 2 cycles of respiratory resuscitation and 5 abdominal compressions. Insist until the object is removed.
Source: Mediserve‘s Pocket Guide to First Aid.
