April - First Aid - Choking (Airway Obstruction)

Explanation
Pounding on the back of a conscious choking victim is not the correct action to dislodge the object. The correct procedure for a conscious choking victim is to perform the Heimlich maneuver, which involves standing behind the person, placing your arms around their waist, making a fist with one hand, and using the other hand to provide support. Then, you should deliver upward thrusts to the abdomen to force air from the lungs and dislodge the object. Pounding on the back may cause the object to become further lodged or cause injury to the victim.

Explanation
This statement is incorrect and potentially dangerous. If a foreign body becomes within reach, the correct action is to try to remove it safely, rather than pushing it deeper. Pushing the object deeper can cause further blockage and potentially worsen the situation. It is important to seek immediate medical attention in such cases.

Explanation
A finger sweep should only be used on an unconscious choking victim because if someone is conscious and choking, it is best to encourage them to cough forcefully to try and dislodge the object themselves. However, if the person becomes unconscious, a finger sweep can be used to remove any visible obstructions from the mouth and throat to clear the airway and allow for proper resuscitation measures to be taken.

Explanation
The distress signal for choking is not placing the hands on top of the head. When someone is choking, they typically place their hands around their throat to indicate that they are in distress and need immediate help. Placing the hands on top of the head is not a recognized distress signal for choking.

Explanation
A choking victim who is coughing should be allowed to continue coughing. Coughing is a natural response that helps clear the airway, and if the person is able to cough, it means their airway is not completely blocked. Coughing can effectively expel the object blocking the airway without the need for further intervention. Encouraging the person to keep coughing and monitoring them closely is recommended. If the coughing does not resolve the choking, more active measures such as back blows or abdominal thrusts may be required.