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What are the two methods for removing an airway obstruction from a casualty who is choking?

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Final answer:

To remove an airway obstruction from a choking casualty, back slaps and the Heimlich maneuver are the primary methods. Infants require back slaps while inverted, and older victims may need abdominal thrusts if coughing fails. Emergency medical care should be called if these methods do not resolve the choking.

Step-by-step explanation:

To remove an airway obstruction in a choking casualty, the two primary methods are back slaps and the Heimlich maneuver. For infants, turning them upside down and giving them gentle back slaps might dislodge the object. However, older children and adults should be encouraged to cough to try to expel the object. If this is unsuccessful, deliver five sharp back slaps between the person's shoulder blades. Should these methods fail, performing the Heimlich maneuver is the next step. This technique involves standing behind the person, wrapping your arms around their waist, and giving quick, upward abdominal thrusts to force the object out of the airway.

If the Heimlich maneuver is not successful, it is crucial to call for emergency medical attention immediately. In some cases, medical professionals may need to perform intubation to maintain an open airway, but this is typically done in a hospital or emergency setting.

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