Life-Saving Skills: How to Act When Someone is Choking

A recent online video featuring Dr. Lucia de la Puerta highlights crucial first aid techniques for choking, emphasizing the importance of immediate action in such emergencies. Dr. de la Puerta, a medical professional, shared a personal story about a friend whose father tragically passed away due to choking because bystanders were unaware of life-saving maneuvers.This prompted her to demonstrate the correct application of back blows and the Heimlich maneuver. For back blows, the individual should be inclined forward, and five firm strikes should be delivered between the shoulder blades to dislodge the obstruction. For the Heimlich maneuver, Dr. de la Puerta instructed placing a fist between the navel and sternum, covered by the other hand, and performing forceful upward thrusts. She also provided a valuable tip for self-application, suggesting using a chair to apply pressure if alone. Additionally, she briefly touched upon a technique for children, involving gently pulling the neck upwards. The video underscores that if a person loses consciousness, immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be initiated. This vital information serves as a reminder for everyone to learn these essential first aid skills.