If a responsive choking person becomes unresponsive, you should immediately call emergency services (911), gently lower the person to the ground on a firm flat surface, and start CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation) right away. Begin with chest compressions—push hard and fast in the center of the chest—and after 30 compressions, open the mouth to look for any visible obstruction and remove it if you can see it. Then attempt to give two rescue breaths if the airway is clear. If the breaths do not make the chest rise, continue with cycles of chest compressions followed by checking the mouth and rescue breaths until help arrives or the person starts breathing on their own. Do not perform a blind finger sweep; only remove an object if it is visible.
Steps in detail:
- Lower the person carefully to a firm, flat surface to avoid injury.
- Call 911 or direct someone else to call immediately.
- Begin CPR starting with 30 chest compressions at a depth of at least 2 inches and a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute.
- After compressions, open the mouth and remove any visible object.
- Give two rescue breaths if the airway is clear and the chest rises.
- If breaths do not go in, continue compressions and checking the mouth.
- Repeat until emergency medical personnel take over or the person recovers.
These actions help attempt to clear the airway blockage and provide oxygen to the person.
