Is it correct to perform CPR on someone who is suffocating?

In general, CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) should not be performed when a patient is experiencing choking. CPR is primarily intended for cases in which the heart has stopped beating, aiming to restore spontaneous breathing and circulation. However, a person who is choking is usually still conscious, and performing CPR in such a situation is inappropriate. The detailed explanation is as follows:

CPR is an effective emergency procedure designed to restore spontaneous breathing and circulation. Once cardiac arrest occurs, if immediate rescue measures are not provided promptly, irreversible damage to the brain and other vital organs may result. Therefore, CPR must be initiated immediately at the scene after cardiac arrest to maximize the chance of survival by buying critical time for further medical treatment.

During the early stage of choking, the patient is typically still conscious, making CPR unsuitable. The correct first-aid method for choking is the Heimlich maneuver: the rescuer stands behind the patient, wraps their arms around the patient's chest, makes a fist with the right hand and places it against the upper abdomen just above the navel near the xiphoid process, then covers the right hand with the left hand and delivers quick upward and backward abdominal thrusts. This creates increased intrathoracic pressure artificially, forcing the obstructing object out of the airway.

It is recommended that individuals seek prompt medical attention when experiencing any discomfort and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician, which helps promote recovery.