Abdominal thrusts, often called the Heimlich maneuver, are a core part of choking first aid for adults and children over one year. Done correctly, they raise pressure below a blockage to help push it out.
This is general information, not medical advice. Hands-on training makes a real difference.
Step by step
- Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist
- Make a fist and place it just above the navel, below the ribcage
- Grasp the fist with your other hand
- Pull sharply inward and upward, as if trying to lift the person slightly
- Repeat up to five times, then reassess
Alternating with back blows
Most guidelines recommend alternating five back blows with five abdominal thrusts, continuing until the object clears or the person becomes unresponsive.
Common mistakes
- Placing the fist too high (on the ribs) or too low
- Pushing straight in instead of inward and upward
- Hesitating with too little force
- Forgetting to call emergency services
After the object clears
Even after successful thrusts, the person should be assessed by a medical professional, as thrusts can occasionally cause internal injury. When in doubt, seek care.
