Heimlich Maneuver

Before Performing Heimlich Maneuver

  • If you encounter a conscious choking victim, ask if he or she can speak.
  • If the victim can speak or cough forcefully, he or she is moving air. Do not do anything to interfere with the effort to cough out the obstructing object.
  • If the victim is conscious but cannot speak, tell her you are going to try to help, and ask permission to proceed.
  • Only after you have followed the above procedure, you may attempt the Heimlich maneuver.

Earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.® credits for your AMT, ASCP, or NCA recertification requirements.

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