Final answer:
If an infant is choking, back slaps and chest thrusts can be used to dislodge the object. For adults, encouraging them to cough and delivering back slaps are initial steps; if ineffective, proceed to the Heimlich maneuver and call for emergency assistance if required.
Step-by-step explanation:
Performing Back Slaps and Chest Thrusts on an Infant
When an infant is choking, time is of the essence. The first step is to turn the infant face down on your forearm with their head lower than their body and give up to five sharp back slaps between the shoulder blades. This can help dislodge the object. If the back slaps do not work, performing chest thrusts is the next step. Hold the infant face-up on your forearm with their head lower than their chest and give five chest thrusts using two fingers in the middle of the chest. If the object remains lodged after these steps, immediate medical attention is necessary.
For an older person who is choking, first, you should encourage them to cough as this might dislodge the object. If coughing doesn't work, deliver up to five back slaps forcefully between the shoulder blades. Should this fail, prepare to perform the Heimlich maneuver, which can be learned through various instructional resources. However, if the Heimlich maneuver does not clear the airway, call for emergency medical care right away.