The Heimlich maneuver is a critical life-saving technique that can prevent death from choking. When someone is choking on food or a foreign object, quick and proper execution of this emergency procedure can mean the difference between life and death. Understanding how to perform this maneuver correctly—and when to use it—is essential knowledge for everyone.
Named after Dr. Henry Heimlich, who first described it in 1974, this technique uses abdominal thrusts to force air from the lungs to expel an object blocking the airway. Learning the proper technique and knowing its limitations can help you respond effectively in an emergency.
Performing the Heimlich Maneuver Correctly
The proper execution of the Heimlich maneuver involves several specific steps that must be performed in sequence:
For a Conscious Adult or Child Over Age 1
1. Stand behind the choking person 2. Wrap your arms around their waist 3. Make a fist with one hand and place it just above their navel 4. Grasp your fist with your other hand 5. Pull inward and upward with quick, forceful thrusts 6. Repeat until the object is expelled
Signs Someone Needs the Heimlich Maneuver
Recognize these critical signs that indicate someone is choking and needs immediate intervention:
- Unable to speak or make sounds
- Universal choking sign (hands clutched to throat)
- Weak cough or no cough
- Bluish skin color
- Panic or distress signals
Modified Techniques for Special Situations
For Pregnant Women or Large Individuals
When performing the Heimlich maneuver on pregnant women or people who are significantly overweight, position your hands at the base of the breastbone rather than the abdomen. The chest thrusts should still be directed inward and upward but at a higher position on the body.
Self-Administered Technique
If you're alone and choking, you can perform the Heimlich maneuver on yourself by:
- Making a fist and positioning it above your navel
- Pressing your fist against a firm surface (like a chair back or counter edge)
- Pushing inward and upward with quick, forceful movements
When Not to Use the Heimlich Maneuver
There are specific situations where the Heimlich maneuver should not be used:
- Infants under one year (use modified back blows and chest thrusts instead)
- Someone who can speak, cough forcefully, or breathe adequately
- Drowning victims
- People who are unconscious (CPR should be performed instead)
Potential Risks and Complications
While the Heimlich maneuver can save lives, it's important to be aware of potential complications:
- Broken ribs
- Internal organ damage
- Aspiration of stomach contents
- Bruising or soreness at the site of thrusts
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do you perform the Heimlich maneuver on an adult or child who is choking?
Stand behind the person, wrap your arms around their waist, make a fist above their navel, grasp it with your other hand, and perform quick, upward thrusts until the object is dislodged.
- Can you do the Heimlich maneuver on yourself if you're choking alone?
Yes, you can perform self-administered abdominal thrusts by making a fist above your navel and forcefully pressing it against a firm surface like a chair back or counter edge, using quick inward and upward movements.
- When should you not use the Heimlich maneuver—like on babies or someone who is pregnant?
Don't use the standard Heimlich maneuver on infants under one year (use back blows and chest thrusts instead), unconscious people, or drowning victims. For pregnant women, perform chest thrusts at the base of the breastbone rather than abdominal thrusts.
- What are the risks and possible complications of the Heimlich maneuver?
Potential complications include broken ribs, internal organ damage, bruising, and aspiration of stomach contents. However, these risks are generally outweighed by the life-saving benefits in true choking emergencies.
- How is the Heimlich maneuver different from CPR, and when should you switch from one to the other?
The Heimlich maneuver is used for conscious choking victims, while CPR is for unconscious victims who aren't breathing. If someone becomes unconscious while choking, immediately switch to CPR and call emergency services.
