Do this nowTap each step when done
- 1Ask "Are you choking?" If they nod, tell them you're going to help.
- 2Ask someone to call 911.
- 3Give 5 back blows between the shoulder blades, leaning them forward.
- 4Give 5 abdominal thrusts: fist above the navel, pull inward and upward.
- 5Alternate 5 and 5 until the object comes out or they breathe.
- 6If they pass out: lower them to the floor and start CPR.
Don't
- Don't step in if they're coughing forcefully: encourage them to cough.
- Don't stick your fingers in blindly. Remove only what you can see.
- Don't stay alone: get help.
Have ready
- 911 on speaker.
- Practicing the technique in a course.
- A sturdy chair (in case it happens when you're alone).
Key factVery large or pregnant person: compressions in the center of the chest. Alone? Call 911 and thrust your abdomen against a chair. Afterward, always get a medical checkup.
More detail
Reviewed: Nov 2026 · Sources: Chapter 7 · First Aid
