From the Guidelines
To perform back blows for choking relief, stand to the side and slightly behind the person, support their chest with one hand, and lean them well forwards. Then, give up to 5 sharp slaps between their shoulder blades with the heel of your other hand 1.
Key Points
- The person should be standing or sitting when back blows are performed.
- The rescuer should support the person's chest and lean them forwards to help dislodge the object.
- Up to 5 back blows can be given to try and relieve the obstruction.
- If the back blows are ineffective, abdominal thrusts can be used as an alternative method to try and relieve the obstruction 1.
Important Considerations
- Back blows are not recommended for unconscious patients or those who are unable to stand or sit.
- The finger sweep method should only be used in unconscious patients if solid material is visible in the airway 1.
- It is essential to act quickly and try to relieve the obstruction as soon as possible to minimize the risk of harm to the patient.
From the Research
Performing Back Blows for Choking Relief
To perform back blows for choking relief, the following steps can be taken:
- Stand behind the person who is choking and wrap your arms around their waist 2.
- With one hand, make a fist and place it just above the person's navel 2.
- With your other hand, grasp your fist and give quick upward thrusts to help dislodge the object 2.
- If the person is still choking, you can try using back blows in combination with abdominal thrusts 2.
Effectiveness of Back Blows
Some studies suggest that back blows may be effective in relieving choking, particularly when used in combination with other techniques [(2,3)].
- A study published in 2024 found that back blows were associated with increased odds of foreign body airway obstruction relief compared to abdominal thrusts and chest compressions 3.
- However, another study published in 1990 suggested that back blows may not be as effective as the Heimlich maneuver and could potentially drive the foreign object further into the airway 4.
Body Position and Choking Relief
The body position of the person who is choking may also affect the effectiveness of back blows 5.
- Applying a prone or head-down position may increase the effectiveness of back blows and abdominal thrusts by using gravity to help dislodge the object 5.
Alternative Methods
Other methods, such as suction-based airway clearance devices, are being developed and studied as potential alternatives to traditional choking relief techniques 6.
- These devices may offer a new approach to relieving choking, but more research is needed to determine their effectiveness and safety 6.