Final answer:
To assist a choking infant, perform back slaps by turning them face-down on your forearm and delivering sharp slaps between the shoulder blades. If unsuccessful, proceed to chest thrusts. For choking adults, start with back slaps and if that fails, perform the Heimlich maneuver; call for emergency care if needed.
Step-by-step explanation:
Step 6 in the process of performing back slaps and chest thrusts for infant choking involves alternating between back blows and chest thrusts until the obstruction is cleared or emergency medical help arrives. This step continues the sequence initiated in earlier steps, aiming to dislodge the foreign object obstructing the infant's airway.
Here's a detailed guide for step 6 in the process of relieving infant choking using back slaps and chest thrusts:
Continue Alternate Sequences of Back Blows and Chest Thrusts:
After performing five back blows, quickly and carefully turn the infant onto their back while supporting the head and neck. Gently place the infant on your forearm while maintaining the head in a downward position.
Perform five chest thrusts by using two or three fingers in the center of the infant's chest, just below the nipple line. Administer chest compressions by pressing down about 1.5 inches (around 4 centimeters) at a rate of roughly 100-120 compressions per minute.
Alternate between five back blows and five chest thrusts until the object is expelled or the infant starts to breathe, cry, or cough forcefully.
Always check the infant's mouth after each sequence of back blows and chest thrusts to see if the object becomes dislodged and is visible for removal. Avoid blindly sweeping your fingers into the infant's mouth, as this may push the object further.
Remember, if the infant becomes unconscious during the choking rescue attempt, start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately while emergency medical services are contacted for further assistance.
This sequence aims to clear the infant's airway and restore breathing. If the obstruction is not relieved after performing several cycles of back blows and chest thrusts or if the infant becomes unconscious, it's crucial to seek emergency medical help promptly. Always ensure you are trained in infant choking rescue techniques and follow the guidelines provided by certified medical organizations or healthcare professionals.