Heimlich maneuver

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• Alternative names

• Definition

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Definition    Return to top

The Heimlich maneuver is an emergency technique for preventing suffocation when a victim's airway (windpipe) becomes blocked by a piece of food or other object. It can be used safely on both adults and children, but most experts do not recommend it for infants less than 1 year old. It can also be self-administered.

For a conscious victim who is sitting or standing, position yourself behind the victim and reach your arms around his or her waist. Place your fist, thumb side in, just above the victim's navel and grab the fist tightly with your other hand. Pull your fist abruptly upwards and inwards to increase airway pressure behind the obstructing object and force it from the windpipe. The procedure may need to be repeated several times before the object is dislodged.

A related technique exists for a victim who is, or who becomes, unconscious.

If repeated attempts do not free the airway, an emergency incision in the windpipe (tracheostomy or cricothyrotomy) may be necessary. See further information on:

• Choking (for conscious infant under 1 year)
• Choking (for conscious adult or child over 1 year)
• Choking (for unconscious infant under 1 year)
• Choking (for unconscious adult or child over 1 year)