What is the Heimlich Maneuver / Abdominal Thrusts? By Susha Cheriyedath, MSc Heimlich maneuver or abdominal thrusts is a technique used to relieve choking victims. The aim of the procedure is to dislodge a foreign object that is blocking the airway of the victim. It is named after the physician Henry J Heimlich who invented the technique in the 1970s. How is it Performed? To perform the maneuver, make a fist with your dominant hand and keep the fist’s thumb side between the belly button and sternum of the victim. Grab the fist with the other hand and give strong inward and upward thrusts of increasing pressure till the blockage is cleared. Mild and Severe Choking When a person is choking, his airway is partially or fully blocked, interfering …show more content…
But keep performing back blows and abdominal thrusts till the person receives medical attention. If the victim stops breathing or faints, perform CPR and chest compressions. Caution Abdominal thrusts should never be performed in infants under 1 year or in pregnant women. For choking infants, back slaps may be helpful, while chest compressions are recommended for pregnant women who are choking. Even though it is a life-saving procedure, it involves heavy blows and may lead to serious injuries at times. Once this procedure is successfully done, the victim should always be seen by a doctor to assess any internal damage due to the thrusts. Choking victims also need medical attention if coughing persists or they have a feeling that something is still inside their throats. References • https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/000047.htm • http://www.nhs.uk/chq/Pages/2301.aspx •