Abdominal thrusts

Definition

Abdominal thrusts are a first aid technique used to relieve choking by applying pressure to the abdomen to expel an obstructing object from the airway. This method is vital in emergency situations, particularly when someone is unable to breathe, cough, or speak due to a blocked airway. Proper execution of abdominal thrusts can save lives by effectively removing the obstruction and restoring normal breathing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. To perform abdominal thrusts effectively, stand behind the person who is choking and place your arms around their waist.
2. Make a fist with one hand and place it just above the person's navel, then grasp your fist with the other hand and give quick inward and upward thrusts.
3. Abdominal thrusts should be repeated until the obstruction is dislodged or the person becomes unresponsive.
4. If the person becomes unresponsive while performing abdominal thrusts, you should immediately call for emergency help and begin CPR if trained to do so.
5. Abdominal thrusts are not recommended for infants under one year old; back blows and chest thrusts are preferred in those cases.

Review Questions

• How do you perform abdominal thrusts effectively on an adult who is choking?
  • To perform abdominal thrusts on an adult, first ensure you are positioned behind the person. Wrap your arms around their waist and make a fist with one hand, placing it just above their navel. Grasp your fist with your other hand and deliver quick inward and upward thrusts. Repeat this until the object is expelled or they become unresponsive.
• Discuss why it's crucial to know both abdominal thrusts and alternative methods for infants when dealing with choking situations.
  • It's essential to know both abdominal thrusts for adults and alternative methods for infants because their anatomy and physiology differ significantly. Infants are more susceptible to injury from improper techniques; thus, back blows and chest thrusts are recommended instead of abdominal thrusts. Understanding these differences ensures that responders can provide appropriate care in emergencies, increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.
• Evaluate the importance of knowing how to perform abdominal thrusts in emergency scenarios and its implications on patient outcomes.
  • Knowing how to perform abdominal thrusts is critical in emergency scenarios as it can quickly resolve a life-threatening situation caused by choking. Effective execution of this technique can prevent unconsciousness and potential brain damage due to lack of oxygen. In turn, being well-trained in this skill enhances confidence among bystanders and first responders, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes during choking incidents.

Related terms

Choking:

A medical emergency that occurs when an object blocks the airway, preventing normal breathing.

Heimlich maneuver: Another name for abdominal thrusts, named after Dr. Henry Heimlich, who popularized the technique for treating choking.

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): A life-saving technique used in emergencies when someone's breathing or heartbeat has stopped, often performed after abdominal thrusts if the person becomes unresponsive.