CHOKING FIRST AID (INFANT, UP TO AGE 1 YEAR) Part 1

Choking happens when an object gets stuck in the throat or airway. This can block the flow of air and cut off oxygen to the brain. Your baby will have a weak cough and trouble breathing or noisy breathing.

Young babies may choke if they swallow breastmilk or formula too quickly or if they have too much mucus.

Any object small enough to go into your baby's airway can block it. This includes small food pieces like nuts, grapes, beans, popcorn, hotdogs, or food that hasn’t been chewed well. Household objects like buttons, marbles, coins, latex balloons, and beads are also common choking hazards. Small toy parts can also cause your child to choke.

If your baby is choking, give first aid right away. This will clear the airway so your baby can breathe.

SIGNS OF A BLOCKED AIRWAY

These are signs of choking:

• Violent coughing
• A high-pitched sound when breathing in
• Your baby can’t cough, breathe, or cry
• Face turns pale and bluish

AT THE FIRST SIGN OF CHOKING

If your baby is conscious, having troublebreathing, and can’t cry or make sounds, start first aid for choking right away. This will clear the airway. Follow these guidelines:

1. Don't put your finger into the baby’s mouth to remove the object. Your finger could push the object farther into the baby’s throat.
2. Have someone call 911 if you're not alone.
3. Sit down. Then lay the baby stomach-down along your forearm. Support the baby’s face (head) and neck in your hand. If you need to, support your arm with the baby along your thigh. Make sure the baby’s head is slightly lower than the rest of his or her body. This will help dislodge the object more easily from the throat.
4. Use the heel of your free hand to give 5 quick thumps (back blows) between the baby’s shoulder blades.
5. If the object is still lodged, turn the baby face up on your forearm. Support the head. Place 2 or 3 fingers in the middle of the baby’s breastbone. Push down about 1/2 to 1 inch. Do this 5 times fast.
6. Check the baby’s mouth to see if the object is dislodged. If not, repeat steps 3 and 4 until the baby’s airway is clear and the baby is breathing normally.

Choking First Aid (Infant, Up to Age 1 Year) | MHealth.org

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