If something is lodged in the patient's throat and breathing is completely blocked, you have a maximum of 3 minutes to sharp to revive the patient, which is not enough time to send for a doctor. It is best to use the safest and simplest technique: the Heimlich Maneuver. All that you need is a clear head. You may minister to the patient while he is standing, sitting or in a prone position. Take a quick look into the throat and try to pull the obstruction with your small finger.







Heimlich Maneuver
1. In standing position
- Hug the patient from behind, pressing your fist just below the ribs and above the navel, thumbs towards the body.
- Bend your arms at the elbow.
- Grasp your fist with the other hand and thrust towards the patient's victim continuously until the obstructing object is spat out.

2. In sitting position
- Use the same procedure as above, except that you will be kneeling behind the patient
- If your patient is an infant, hold him onto your lap and perform the maneuver.

3. In prone position
- If the victim has fallen to the floor, you have no time to get him into a standing or sitting position.
- Turn his face upward and kneel beside his hips facing the stomach.
- Place the wrist of your hand where you would put your fist in the other two positions.
- Place your hand over each other
- Thrust towards the abdomen by leaning forward.
- In case an adult is the one in trouble, a child can administer to him in this position.


Children are particularly at risk of choking because of their tendency to put things directly into their mouths. Small object like beads, buttons, coins and marbles pass harmlessly through the digestive system and are eliminated. Suspect chocking and act accordingly if you notice the following symptoms:

1. The patient is trying to cough
2. The patient is gripping his throat, making gasping sounds.
3. The patient is unable to speak or breathe.
4. The patient turns blue around the face and lips.
5. The patient has strained veins in the neck and face.

You may also try putting the person over a table hanging upside down. Slap hard between the shoulder blades to urge to cough out the swallowed object.