Many of the parents I speak to and work with all have the same #1 first aid fear: choking. Choking emergencies happen suddenly and can be very scary for both the baby and parent involved.
If you are reading this, you already understand the value in first aid training and practicing emergency preparedness skills to empower yourself, but all too often I hear about tragedies resulting from choking emergencies because no one knew what to do. So as a refresher, here are the key points to remember when dealing with an infant first aid choking emergency:
1. If you still hear noise from the baby don’t do anything but encourage coughing. Resist the urge to whack them on the back or bounce them up and down because this can only make things worse.
2. Only when you don’t hear any more noise from the baby (full obstruction of the airway) do you spring into action with alternating back blows and chest compressions. Try to be over a soft surface if you can (couch, bed, etc.) in case your baby is squirming in your arms.
3. As difficult as it is, try not to panic. Stay calm so you can react quickly and effectively if your baby needs you to.
This month’s 1-page Quick Reference Guide is all about infant choking emergencies so click here for the FREE downloadable PDF and post it up on your fridge just in case.
When it comes to a first aid emergency… be calm, be confident & use common sense!
Do you know someone who has a new baby or too busy to leave their home to attend a first aid class? At ON-SITE First Aid, we love working with clients in their homes! Contact us to inquire about training options in your own home.