Choking

Choking is the obstruction of the flow of air into a person's lungs by a foreign object, commonly food. Choking may become a medical emergency.

Related Topics:
Lung - Medical emergency

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If the casualty can still cough and gag then they have a partially open airway, and will most likely be able to cough up the offending object. The first aid at this point is to stand by and encourage coughing.

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If the casualty is completely silent this indicates they have of a totally blocked airway. If they develop a bluish face or lose consciousness, call for help using the emergency telephone number. When the casualty has no air exchange and is unconscious, the first aid procedure is to try to sweep the object out with a hooked index finger.

Related Topics:
Bluish - Call for help - Emergency telephone number

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Abdominal thrusts carry the risk of rib fractures and serious internal injuries, but are recommended by some authorities for conscious patients or if a finger sweep has failed in an unconscious patient. Back slaps, may potentially further lodge the obstruction into the airway, but are recommended for infants. Artificial respiration may be required after the airway is cleared if they and are not breathing.

Related Topics:
Abdominal thrusts - Artificial respiration

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Inspection of the pharynx and larynx with a laryngoscope, and removal of the object under direct vision is the advanced medical procedure. Paramedics carry laryngoscopes in the field.

Related Topics:
Pharynx - Larynx - Laryngoscope - Paramedic

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