How to Clear an Obstructed Airway

When a person isn't breathing, performing rescue breathing (see Related eHows) can save a life. But sometimes the breaths won't go in because the injured person's airway is obstructed.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Wilderness First Aid Classes
• Breathing Masks
• Notebooks
• First Aid Classes
• Pens
• Latex Gloves
• First Aid Kits

Check Whether Airway Is Obstructed

1. Determine whether the surrounding scene is safe. (See "How to Maximize the Safety of an Emergency Scene During First Aid.")
2. Determine whether the injured person is breathing. (See "How to Check Airway, Breathing and Circulation.")
3. Position the injured person on his or her back, being extremely careful not to move or twist the head, neck or spine. If several rescuers are present, use their assistance to minimize this danger. (For a related technique, see "How to Logroll an Injured Person During First Aid.") If not, continue with the steps below.
4. Maintain an open airway while you pinch the injured person's nose shut.
5. Give two long, slow breaths, being sure to maintain a seal between your mouth and his or hers.
6. If your breaths do not go in, continue with the steps below.
7. Retilt the head as a second attempt to open the airway. Or, if you suspect spinal injury (See "How to Rule out a Spinal Cord Injury"), perform the jaw-thrust method. (See "How to Provide Rescue Breathing for an Adult During First Aid.")

Clear the Obstruction

8. Place your index finger underneath the injured person's chin.
9. Place your thumb inside the injured person's mouth, on top of the tongue.
10. Squeeze with your thumb and index finger.
11. Pull the jaw and tongue downward (toward the injured person's toes), peeling the base of the tongue away from the throat.
12. Look for what is obstructing the airway.
13. Sweep out the obstruction with the index finger of the opposite hand.
14. Proceed with rescue breathing.

Tips & Warnings

• Use latex gloves and a breathing mask to prevent infection or transmission of disease.
• If breaths still won't go in, the airway may be obstructed. Follow the steps below to clear it.
• If the injured person vomits, turn the person onto his or her side - extremely carefully if you suspect a spinal injury - and wipe out the mouth. Return the person to the supine position and continue rescue breathing.
• This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment.