User:Mr. Ibrahem/Abdominal thrusts

Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, is a treatment for severe choking (foreign body airway obstruction). Specifically it is used in those over the age of 1 who are unable to cough but remain conscious. It is not recommended in those under 1 year old or who are pregnant. In those under 1 back slaps and chest thrusts are recommended, while in those who are pregnant chest thrusts are used.

The rescuer should start standing behind the person. They should than wrap their arms around the person's waist and bend them forwards. This is followed by clenching one hand into a fist, just above the belly button, and using the other hand and arms to pull the fist inward and upwards. This final movement may be repeated 5 to 10 times. For a child a person may need to kneel.

Complications may include injury to the ribs, liver, stomach or spleen injury. It is possible that vomiting may also occur. If the person becomes unconscious cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) should be started. Henry Heimlich, an American surgeon, is credited with the procedures creation in 1974.