Heimlich Manoeuvre

The techniques for Heimlich Manoeuvre for infants, children and adult vary in many areas. Due to the fragility of an infant or small child, extra precaution must be taken not to cause severe or even fatal injuries due to the wrong application of the Heimlich Manoeuvre. It is crucial to know the proper application for each age group by learning from qualified instructors.

If the child is conscious and coughing forcefully, encourage the child to cough out the object. Avoid attempts to remove the foreign object with your fingers when the child is coughing or gagging because this may cause the object to be pushed back into the airway, causing further obstruction.

If the child is showing signs of breathing difficulties and losing consciousness, take immediate action to perform the Heimlich Manoeuvre. Note that different age groups require different techniques.

When the victim is unconscious, not breathing and suspected to be choking, give immediate rescue breathes before spending precious time in getting medical help. Next perform the Heimlich Manoeuvre and check if the foreign object has dislodged. If it can be visibly seen in the mouth, remove with fingers.

Knowledge of basic first aid gives us a sense of security and confidence. Who knows, the little time spent on learning basic first aid, CPR and the Heimlich Manoeuvre could save the life of a young child.