FACT SHEET
St John First Aid for Choking
Severe or continued difficulty with breathing is an emergency condition requiring immediate attention. A person chokes when the airway is partially or completely blocked and in such a state, a person may not be able to communicate that they are choking. Recognising the signs of choking, and then knowing what to do, can make the difference between life and death.
A choking person will usually clutch their throat, cough, wheeze or gag, have trouble speaking or swallowing, and make violent attempts to breathe. Face, neck, lips, ears and fingernails will become increasingly blue and the casualty can become unconscious.
St John, Australia's leader in first aid, recommends the following steps for managing choking:
First Aid for Choking Adult / Child over one year
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Ask casualty to cough- to remove object
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If unsuccessful, call 000 / 112
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Bend casualty well forward and give up to 5 sharp blows between shoulder blades
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If still unsuccessful, give up to 5 chest thrusts, checking to see if the object is removed after each chest thrust.
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If unsuccessful, alternate between 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until medical aid arrives or blockage clears.
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If casualty becomes unconscious and displays no signs of life, begin CPR
This information is not a substitute for first aid training.
For More Information:
Call Customer Service on 1300 360 455
