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ROYAL LIFE SAVING

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Choking – Adult

If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency please contact Triple Zero (000) immediately

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Introduction

Choking happens when a person’s airway is blocked, preventing normal breathing. In adults, it often occurs while eating or drinking, but it can also result from accidents involving small objects. It is a sudden event that requires immediate attention to restore airflow. Recognising choking as a serious risk highlights why awareness and preparedness are essential in both social and workplace settings.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Clutching throat (universal choking sign) 

  • Inability to breathe, speak, or cough effectively 

  • Face turning red or blue 

  • Collapse if blockage not removed

What you should do?

  • Follow DRSABCD 

  • Encourage casualty to cough if able 

  • If ineffective: give up to 5 sharp back blows between shoulder blades 

  • If still blocked: give up to 5 chest thrusts 

  • Alternate back blows and chest thrusts until clear or help arrives 

  • Call 000 if not breathing, start CPR

These fact sheets are provided by Royal Life Saving to support public, workplace, school, and community education. They must be used in their full and current format and are not permitted for commercial purposes unless written approval is obtained. The information is not a substitute for accredited First Aid training, and users are encouraged to complete recognised courses and refresh their skills regularly. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, Royal Life Saving does not accept responsibility for how the material is applied, and users should always check they are referring to the latest version. Use of this content does not imply endorsement or partnership, and Royal Life Saving may request that use of its materials cease if considered inappropriate or unauthorised.

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