Heimlich Maneuver First Aid Procedure
Oct 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
In general, the Heimlich maneuver is a critically important emergency procedure, primarily used for rescuing individuals with airway obstruction caused by foreign bodies. When a foreign object accidentally enters the trachea and causes breathing difficulties, the Heimlich maneuver must be performed immediately. It is essential to carry out the Heimlich maneuver correctly and strictly according to protocol to avoid causing secondary injuries to the patient and prevent serious complications.
Generally, the Heimlich maneuver is a critically important emergency procedure, primarily used for rescuing individuals with airway obstruction caused by foreign objects. When a foreign object accidentally enters the trachea and causes breathing difficulties, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed immediately. The correct steps are as follows:
1. Stand behind the victim, place your right foot between their legs in a lunge position. Use your left hand to gently push the victim’s back forward, positioning them in a forward-leaning posture with their head slightly lowered and mouth open.
2. Make a fist with your right hand and place the thumb side of your fist against the middle of the victim’s abdomen, between the xiphoid process and the navel—specifically, at the spot two finger-widths above the navel, along the midline of the abdomen just below the xiphoid process.
3. Place your left hand over your right fist and quickly, forcefully, and repeatedly thrust inward and upward into the abdomen. Perform five thrusts as one set, ensuring each thrust is distinct and clearly separated to help expel the obstructing object.
The Heimlich maneuver must be performed correctly and strictly according to guidelines to avoid causing secondary injuries and serious complications.
