BLS

Comprehensive study of bls covering fundamental concepts and advanced applications.

Advanced Topics

Special Situations: Choking and Drowning

Unique Challenges

Some emergencies require special BLS techniques, especially choking and drowning.

Choking

  • Mild choking: Encourage coughing.
  • Severe choking: If the person can't talk, breathe, or cough, perform abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) until the object is expelled or the person goes unresponsive.

Drowning

  • Remove the person from the water quickly and safely.
  • Start rescue breaths right away because oxygen deprivation is likely.
  • Continue with chest compressions and breaths until help arrives.

Safety First

Always ensure your own safety before helping others, especially around water or in crowded places.

Examples

  • A diner stands behind a choking friend and performs abdominal thrusts.

  • A lifeguard pulls a swimmer from the pool and gives rescue breaths on the poolside.

In a Nutshell

Choking and drowning require quick, specific BLS responses to restore breathing.