Understanding the AHA Algorithm for Choking Children

At CodeCPR.com, we are committed to providing essential knowledge and resources to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone, especially our children. One critical area of concern is how to respond effectively when a child is choking. The American Heart Association (AHA) has developed a detailed algorithm to guide rescuers through this potentially life-threatening situation. In this blog, we'll break down the AHA algorithm for choking children to help you understand what steps to take in an emergency.

Recognizing the Signs of Choking

The first step in addressing a choking incident is recognizing the signs. Children may display the following symptoms when they are choking:

• Inability to speak or cry out

• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing

• Coughing that is weak or ineffective

• Skin turning blue (cyanosis), especially around the lips and face

• Clutching at the throat or mouth

• Loss of consciousness if the airway remains blocked

The AHA Algorithm for Choking Children

The AHA algorithm provides a clear sequence of actions to take when a child (typically ages 1 to 8 years old) is choking. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Assess the Situation

• Stay Calm: Your calm demeanor can help reassure the child and those around you.

• Encourage Coughing: If the child is coughing effectively, encourage them to continue. Coughing is the body’s natural way to expel the object.

2. Perform Back Blows and Abdominal Thrusts

If the child is unable to cough, speak, or breathe, you need to intervene immediately:

• Position Yourself: Stand or kneel behind the child. If kneeling, ensure you are at an appropriate height to deliver effective blows and thrusts.

• Give Back Blows: Deliver five sharp back blows between the child’s shoulder blades using the heel of your hand. Ensure you use enough force to dislodge the object but not so much that you cause harm.

• Perform Abdominal Thrusts (Heimlich Maneuver): After the back blows, perform five abdominal thrusts. To do this, place a fist just above the child’s navel (belly button). Grasp your fist with your other hand and deliver quick, inward and upward thrusts. Repeat this sequence of five back blows and five abdominal thrusts until the object is expelled or the child becomes unresponsive.

3. If the Child Becomes Unresponsive

If the child becomes unresponsive at any point, you must act quickly:

• Call for Help: Shout for help and, if possible, have someone else call 911 or your local emergency number. If you are alone, perform two minutes of care before calling for help.

• Begin CPR: Start CPR with chest compressions. Place the child on a firm surface, and begin with 30 chest compressions followed by two rescue breaths. Continue this cycle until professional help arrives or the child starts to breathe normally.

Importance of Training

Understanding the AHA algorithm for choking is crucial, but hands-on training is invaluable. At CodeCPR.com, we offer certified CPR and first aid courses tailored for parents, caregivers, and educators. Our training provides the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively in emergencies.

Final Thoughts

Choking incidents can be terrifying, but knowing how to respond can make all the difference. By familiarizing yourself with the AHA algorithm and seeking proper training, you can help ensure the safety of children in your care.

For more information on CPR training and certification, visit CodeCPR.com and explore our comprehensive resources and courses. Together, we can create a safer environment for our children.

Stay safe, The CodeCPR Team