Choking (adult)

Someone cannot breathe, speak or cough.

This is general guidance. Get proper first-aid training, and call emergency services.

1. 1 Ask if they are choking If they can cough or speak, encourage them to keep coughing.
2. 2 Give 5 sharp back blows Lean them forward and strike between the shoulder blades.
3. 3 Give 5 abdominal thrusts Only if back blows do not clear it. Never on a pregnant or very small person, use chest thrusts instead.
4. 4 Call your local emergency number If it is still not cleared, call now and continue the cycle.
5. 5 Repeat until help arrives Alternate 5 back blows and 5 thrusts until the object clears or help takes over.