How to Give First Aid for a Swallowed Object

If a person swallows a small object it's usually just a matter of time to wait for the object to pass. But if the swallowed object is sharp, metallic or something else dangerous such as a battery, you should seek medical help. If the object is too large to swallow or the person appears to be choking, you need to give first aid and seek medical help. Do not panic-just follow these steps.

Instructions

• 1

  Let the person cough if he can. This is nature's way of removing a swallowed object that doesn't belong in the throat.

• 2

  Make sure the person who swallowed the object can get enough air. If she can talk and seems to be breathing normally, she should be all right. Monitor her closely in case you do need to administer first aid.

• 3

  Call 911 if the person cannot breathe. Then give him five sharp blows to the back. Lean the person forward and support him with one arm. Use the other arm to administer five sharp blows between the shoulder blades. Use much lighter blows for a child.

• 4

  Turn the victim so her back is against yours. Wrap your arms around her. Make a fist with one hand. Place it about two inches below her diaphragm with your thumb on the inside. With a quick thrust, pull your fist into the victim's middle. Do this five times.

• 5

  Continue doing Steps 3 and 4 until the object comes up and the victim can breathe again. Check periodically to see if you can remove the object from the victim's mouth with your fingers. Be careful not to push it back down his throat.

• 6

  Administer CPR and/or chest compressions if the victim passes out. Place the victim on the floor and continue first aid until the ambulance arrives.