When Performing Abdominal Thrusts On Adults And Children Quizlet

When Performing Abdominal Thrusts on Adults and Children: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction:

Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, are a life-saving technique used to dislodge an object obstructing a person's airway. This crucial first aid procedure is vital in situations where someone is choking and unable to breathe or cough effectively. Understanding when and how to perform abdominal thrusts on both adults and children is crucial for anyone wishing to be prepared for such emergencies. This article will delve into the specifics of performing abdominal thrusts, highlighting key differences in technique between adults and children, and addressing common misconceptions. We'll cover the proper procedure, potential complications, and when to seek immediate medical attention after performing the maneuver.

Understanding Airway Obstruction:

Before discussing the technique of abdominal thrusts, it's vital to understand the nature of airway obstruction. A complete or partial blockage of the airway prevents air from entering the lungs, leading to a lack of oxygen and potentially death within minutes. Symptoms of airway obstruction can vary depending on the severity of the blockage. These can include:

• Inability to speak or cough: This is a classic sign of a severe obstruction. The person may be unable to produce any sound.
• Gasping for air or noisy breathing: The person may make high-pitched noises while struggling to breathe.
• Blue discoloration of the skin (cyanosis): This indicates a severe lack of oxygen.
• Loss of consciousness: In severe cases, the lack of oxygen can lead to unconsciousness.
• Clutching the throat (universal distress signal): This is a common sign indicating choking.

When to Perform Abdominal Thrusts:

Abdominal thrusts should only be performed if a person is conscious and exhibiting signs of a severe airway obstruction, as described above. If the person can cough forcefully, encourage them to continue coughing. A forceful cough is often sufficient to dislodge the object. However, if the cough is weak or ineffective, or if the person becomes increasingly distressed and unable to breathe, it's time to initiate abdominal thrusts.

Performing Abdominal Thrusts on Adults:

The steps for performing abdominal thrusts on an adult are as follows:

1. Check for responsiveness: Before initiating any first aid, assess the victim's responsiveness. If unresponsive, begin CPR.
2. Position yourself: Stand behind the choking adult. Wrap your arms around their waist.
3. Fist placement: Make a fist with one hand and place it slightly above the navel (belly button) but below the sternum (breastbone).
4. Second hand placement: Grasp your fist with your other hand and apply quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen.
5. Thrusts: Deliver strong, inward and upward thrusts. Imagine you are trying to lift the person off the ground. Do not apply pressure to the rib cage or sternum. It's crucial to maintain proper hand placement to avoid injury. Repeat the thrusts until the object is dislodged or the person becomes unconscious.
6. Check for object: After the object is dislodged, check the person’s mouth to ensure the blockage is removed. If it’s still present, repeat the procedure or seek immediate medical help.
7. Post-procedure care: Monitor the individual closely after the object has been dislodged. They may require medical attention due to potential complications. If the person is not breathing, begin CPR.

Performing Abdominal Thrusts on Children:

The technique for performing abdominal thrusts on children (ages 1-8) differs slightly from that used on adults. The key difference lies in the force and location of the thrusts. The procedure for children is:

1. Check for responsiveness: As with adults, ensure the child is conscious and responsive before beginning any first aid. Begin CPR for unconscious children.
2. Positioning: Kneel behind the child. Support their chest and head while straddling their legs.
3. Hand placement: Place the heel of one hand on the child’s abdomen, slightly above the navel but below the sternum. Place the other hand on top of the first.
4. Thrusts: Give quick, upward thrusts into the abdomen. The thrusts should be less forceful than those applied to adults. The goal is to dislodge the object, not to inflict injury.
5. Repeat: Repeat the thrusts until the object is dislodged or the child becomes unconscious.
6. Check for object: Once the object is dislodged, ensure it is removed from the child's mouth. If the blockage persists, repeat or seek immediate medical help.
7. Post-procedure care: Closely monitor the child and seek medical assistance immediately if breathing problems persist.

Performing Abdominal Thrusts on Infants (under 1 year old):

The technique for infants differs significantly from that used for older children and adults. Back blows and chest thrusts are used for infants. Never perform abdominal thrusts on an infant. Instead:

1. Support the infant: Hold the infant face down along your forearm, supporting the head and neck.
2. Back blows: Give five firm back blows between the shoulder blades using the heel of your hand.
3. Chest thrusts: Turn the infant face up and place two fingers in the center of the chest, just below the nipple line. Give five chest thrusts, compressing the chest about 1.5 inches deep.
4. Alternate: Continue alternating back blows and chest thrusts until the object is expelled or the infant becomes unresponsive.
5. Medical attention: Seek immediate medical attention if the object is not expelled or the infant becomes unresponsive.

Potential Complications and When to Seek Medical Attention:

Even when successful, abdominal thrusts can potentially lead to complications. These can include:

• Rib fractures: While rare, particularly in children, forceful thrusts can result in broken ribs.
• Internal injuries: In some cases, internal organ damage can occur.
• Vomiting and aspiration: The force of the thrusts can cause vomiting, and if not managed properly, the vomit can be aspirated into the lungs.

Seek immediate medical attention after performing abdominal thrusts if:

• The person remains unconscious.
• The person continues to experience breathing difficulties.
• There's evidence of internal injury or rib fractures.
• The person is vomiting or coughing up blood.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

• Q: What if the person loses consciousness? A: If the person loses consciousness during a choking episode, immediately begin CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation), which includes chest compressions and rescue breaths.
• Q: Can abdominal thrusts be performed on pregnant women? A: Modified chest thrusts should be used for pregnant women. The thrusts are performed in the lower chest rather than the abdomen to avoid harming the fetus. A healthcare professional should be consulted if necessary.
• Q: What if I'm not sure if someone is choking? A: If you're unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and seek immediate medical help. Do not attempt to give abdominal thrusts unless you are confident in the person's condition.
• Q: How can I learn the proper technique for abdominal thrusts? A: Enroll in a first aid and CPR course. This will provide hands-on training and allow you to practice the techniques under supervision.

Conclusion:

Knowing how to perform abdominal thrusts is a vital life-saving skill. While this article provides a comprehensive guide, remember that practical training is essential. This information should not be considered a substitute for formal first aid and CPR certification. Mastering the technique for both adults and children is a crucial step in being prepared to handle choking emergencies and potentially saving a life. The ability to react swiftly and correctly in such critical situations can make all the difference. Regularly reviewing and practicing these techniques is highly recommended to ensure preparedness in any emergency. Remember, early intervention and appropriate response are key to successful outcomes in choking emergencies.