How to Perform the Heimlich Maneuver

Sometimes the difference between whether someone lives or dies, the Heimlich maneuver is something everyone should know. If someone were to choke, could you help him? This step-by-step guide will make sure you are prepared for this situation. Everyone hopes she will never need to perform the Heimlich maneuver, but just in case you do, you will be able to step in and potentially save someone's life.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Ask the person if he is choking. If he shakes his head yes, then you need to prepare to perform the Heimlich maneuver.

2. Tell him you are coming up behind him to begin the Heimlich.

3. Wrap your arms around the choking person's waist.

4. Make a fist with your dominant hand and place your opposite palm on top of that fist.

5. Push your hand in and up in a "J" motion underneath the sternum (where the chest bone finishes) to attempt to dislodge the blockage. Continue until the blockage has cleared and the person is able to breathe regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• During Step 5, you should use enough force so that the person choking might raise up off of the ground during thrusts.
• Move on to CPR if, at any time, the person loses consciousness while not breathing.

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