Abdominal Thrust Maneuver: Purpose, Procedure, and Precautions

Abdominal Thrust Maneuver: Purpose, Procedure, and Precautions

Article
Ear, Nose, & Throat (ENT)
Focused Health Topics
+1
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBA+2 moreMar 28, 2023

Introduction:

The abdominal thrust maneuver, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, is a first-aid procedure used to dislodge an object from the airway of a choking person. The maneuver can be performed on adults, children, and infants who are conscious and choking.

Purpose:

The purpose of the abdominal thrust maneuver is to remove an obstruction from the airway and allow the person to breathe freely. The maneuver involves applying pressure to the abdomen to create a sudden increase in air pressure in the lungs, which can dislodge the obstruction.

Procedure:

The abdominal thrust maneuver can be performed on a conscious, choking person in the following steps:

  • Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist.
  • Make a fist with one hand and place it above the person's navel.
  • Grasp the fist with your other hand and press it into the person's abdomen with a quick upward thrust.
  • Repeat the thrusts until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious.
  • If the person becomes unconscious, call for emergency medical assistance and begin CPR.

Precautions:

The abdominal thrust maneuver should only be performed on a conscious choking person. It is important to follow these precautions:

  • Do not perform the maneuver on a person who is not choking.
  • Do not perform the maneuver on an unconscious person.
  • Do not perform the maneuver on a person who is pregnant or obese.
  • Do not perform the maneuver on a person who has undergone recent abdominal surgery.
  • If the person becomes unconscious, call for emergency medical assistance and begin CPR.

Conclusion:

The abdominal thrust maneuver is a first-aid procedure used to dislodge an object from the airway of a choking person. The maneuver can be performed on adults, children, and infants who are conscious and choking. It involves applying pressure to the abdomen to create a sudden increase in air pressure in the lungs. Precautions should be taken when performing the maneuver to ensure the safety of the person.

Hashtags: #AbdominalThrustManeuver #HeimlichManeuver #FirstAid #Choking #Procedure #Precautions

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team
Alexander Enabnit picture
Author

Alexander Enabnit

Senior Editorial Staff
Alexandra Warren picture
Author

Alexandra Warren

Senior Editorial Staff

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