How to Recognize When to Perform CPR on a Choking Victim

When a choking victim has his airway completely blocked by a foreign object, he will not be able to breathe at all. This means that he will not be able to speak or cough, though he may still be conscious. However, if the situation persists for a significant amount of time, the loss of air will eventually cause the victim to lose consciousness. You will need to recognize this quickly to perform CPR as soon as possible. Read on to learn how to recognize when to perform CPR on choking victim.

Instructions

• 1

  Perform the Heimlich maneuver on the choking victim if the airway is completely obstructed. In such a case, the victim will not be able to cough or talk at all.

• 2

  Pause in between thrusts to check in with the victim. Ask, "Are you able to breathe?"

• 3

  Check to see if the victim is still able to shake or nod her head. If not, she has most likely lost consciousness.

• 4

  Stop performing the Heimlich maneuver. Do not perform the Heimlich on an unconscious victim.

• 5

  Call 911.

• 6

  Check for breathing and heart rate. If the victim is still not breathing, begin CPR.

• 7

  Look for the foreign object in the throat every time the airway is opened during CPR. Remove it by hand if you can.

• 8

  Continue CPR until emergency help arrives.