Choking is a medical emergency. Knowing the signs and acting quickly can save a life.
Signs of Choking
- Clutching the throat
- Unable to speak, cough, or breathe
- High-pitched sounds or silence
- Turning blue, panic on the face
If the Person Can Cough
If they can still cough or speak, encourage them to keep coughing — don't interfere. A strong cough is the best way to clear the airway.
If the Airway Is Blocked
- Call for help right away.
- Give abdominal thrusts (Heimlich) if trained: stand behind, fist above the navel, quick inward and upward thrusts.
- Continue until the object clears or help arrives.
- If the person becomes unconscious, lower them safely and start emergency procedures per your training.
Prevention
Follow texture-modified diet orders, sit clients upright to eat, offer small bites, and never rush meals.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Choking signs: can't speak, cough, or breathe.
- If they can cough, encourage coughing.
- Blocked airway: call for help, abdominal thrusts if trained.
- Prevent it: upright, small bites, no rushing.