Choking Rescue Procedure: Heimlich Maneuver

Overview

A person who is choking (whose airway is completely blocked by food or an object):

• Can't cry, talk, breathe, or cough.
• May grasp their throat.
• May become severely anxious or agitated.
• May turn blue or dusky in color.
• May pass out.

A choking rescue procedure (the Heimlich maneuver) is used to clear an obstruction in adults and children older than 1 year. Back blows and chest thrusts are used in babies younger than 1 year.