First Aid Guides
Choking - Infant (under 1 year)
What to do if an infant is choking
Choking happens when something blocks the airway making it difficult to breathe. An infant's airway is smaller and can be prone to blockage.
If an infant is choking, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and follow the first aid steps in this guide.
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First aid for choking infant (under 1 year)
If the infant is conscious, call Triple Zero (000) immediately and follow the below first aid steps:
Step 1: Give them 5 back blows
- Position them face down on your forearm, with head and shoulders on your hand. Have the head lower than their body
- Hold the infant's mouth open with your fingers
- Ensure you have a firm hold. With the palm of one hand, give 5 back blows between shoulders
- Check if the blockage has cleared after each blow. Remove any loosened material with your little finger
Step 2: If not cleared, give 5 chest thrusts
- Place them on their back on a firm surface
- Place 2 fingers (index and middle) over the lower half of the breastbone and give 5 chest thrusts
- Check if the blockage has cleared after each thrust. Remove any loosened material with your little finger
- Chest thrusts are similar to chest compressions but are delivered at a slower sharper rate
Step 3: Rotate between 5 back blows and chest thrusts
- If they're still choking, continue to rotate between Steps 1 and 2.
- Remember to check if the blockage has cleared after each back blow or chest thrust
- Continue this until the blockage has cleared or medical help arrives
