Infant choking is terrifying, but the technique is learnable and effective. The key difference: babies get back blows and chest thrusts, never abdominal thrusts.
This is general information, not medical advice. A pediatric first-aid class provides essential hands-on practice.
Position the baby safely
Support the infant face-down along your forearm, cradling the jaw, with the head lower than the body. Rest your forearm on your thigh for stability.
Back blows then chest thrusts
- Give up to five back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand
- Turn the baby face-up and give up to five chest thrusts using two fingers on the breastbone
- Alternate until the object clears or the baby becomes unresponsive
If the baby is unresponsive
Call emergency services immediately and begin infant CPR if trained. Look for and remove any object you can clearly see.
