Heimlich Maneuver

The Heimlich Maneuver or Heimlich maneuver, named after Dr. Henry J. Heimlich who popularized it in the 1970s, is a first-aid procedure used to treat upper airway obstructions caused by foreign bodies, typically food particles, in choking victims.

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Heimlich Maneuver abdominal thrusts

Background

The primary objective of the Heimlich Maneuver is to use abdominal pressure to propel trapped air from the lungs, effectively producing an artificial cough. This action can help push a foreign object out of the victim's windpipe (trachea).

Indications

Abdominal thrusts

The Heimlich Maneuver is recommended in situations where:

• A person shows signs of choking.
• There is strong suspicion that the airway is obstructed.
• The person is unable to speak or breathe.
• Coughing is ineffective or not present.

Procedure

For Adults and Children

• Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
• Place a clenched fist just above the person's navel.
• Grab the fist with your other hand and bend the person forward slightly.
• Deliver quick and forceful inward and upward thrusts until the foreign object is expelled.

For Infants

• Hold the infant face down along your forearm, supported by your thigh.
• Give up to 5 back blows between the infant's shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.
• If unsuccessful, turn the infant over and provide 5 chest thrusts, similar to CPR compressions.
• Alternate between back blows and chest thrusts until the blockage is removed.

Precautions

Do not perform the Heimlich Maneuver on infants under 1 year old in the same manner as for adults and older children. Pregnant women or obese individuals should receive chest thrusts instead of abdominal thrusts. If the foreign object is visible in the mouth, it might be possible to carefully remove it with a sweep of a finger. Avoid blind finger sweeps, as this could push the object further down the trachea.

Complications

While the Heimlich Maneuver can be lifesaving, it's essential to be aware of potential complications:

• Rib fractures.
• Damage to internal organs.
• Aspiration of gastric contents.

Aftercare and Further Management

After a choking incident:

• It's crucial to consult a healthcare professional, even if the foreign object was successfully expelled.
• In certain cases, a more thorough examination, such as an X-ray, may be necessary to ensure no residual foreign bodies remain.

Conclusion

The Heimlich Maneuver remains a vital life-saving technique for acute choking events. While its execution is relatively straightforward, understanding its intricacies, potential complications, and the necessity for subsequent medical consultation is crucial for both medical professionals and the general public.

References

Heimlich Maneuver Resources
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