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question

How do I give care to an unconscious adult who is choking?

American Red Cross
American Red Cross
answer
AFTER CHECKING THE SCENE AND THE INJURED OR ILL PERSON:

1: GIVE A RESCUE BREATH
Retilt the head and give another rescue breath.


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2: GIVE 30 CHEST COMPRESSIONS
If the chest still does not rise, give 30 chest compressions.

TIP: The person must be on firm, flat surface. Remove the CPR breathing barrier when giving chest compressions.


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3: LOOK FOR AND REMOVE OBJECT IF SEEN





4: GIVE 2 RESCUE BREATHS

5: WHAT TO DO NEXT
  • IF BREATHS DO NOT MAKE THE CHEST RISE—Repeat steps 2 through 4. 
  • IF CHEST CLEARLY RISES—CHECK for breathing. Give CARE based on the conditions found. 

Do not stop except in one of these situations:
  • The object is removed and the chest clearly rises with rescue breaths.
  • The person starts to breathe on his or her own.
  • Another trained responder or EMS personnel take over.
  • You are too exhausted to continue.
  • The scene becomes unsafe.

American Red Cross, rescuer, unconscious victim, adult, foreign-body check, open airway, lower jaw with thumb

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.