Formula Reminder:5-5
Clinical Overview
Foreign object lodged in the trachea of an adult, causing inability to breathe, speak, or cough effectively.
CRITICAL CONTRAINDICATIONS (DO NOT)
- ×Do not perform blind finger sweeps in the mouth, as this pushes objects deeper.
- ×Do not try to force them to drink water.
Emergency Action Procedure
Step-by-Step Guidance
1
Verify the Blockage
Ask 'Are you choking?' If they nod but cannot speak or make sound, the airway is completely blocked.
Caution:Do not intervene if the patient is coughing loudly. Encourage them to keep coughing.
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2
Deliver 5 Back Blows
Stand behind and slightly to the side. Support their chest with one hand, lean them forward, and hit their back hard 5 times with the heel of your hand.
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3
Give 5 Abdominal Thrusts
Stand behind them. Wrap your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand, place it just above the navel, grab it, and pull inward and upward sharply.
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4
Alternate 5 and 5
Continue alternating 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled or they lose consciousness.
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5
Start CPR If Unconscious
If they collapse, call 999 immediately. Lower them to the floor, open the mouth, check for object, and begin chest compressions.
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🚨WHEN TO CALL EMERGENCY SERVICES
- •If the choking cycle is unsuccessful, or if the patient becomes unconscious, call 999 immediately.
ESTIMATED RECOVERY TIMELINE
Instant relief on expulsion
Timeline is typical for uncomplicated healing. Always follow doctor guidance.
🚨 EMERGENCY ALERT: CALL 999 IMMEDIATELY FOR LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES