The Right Words and Actions During a Heimlich Maneuver: Insights and Dos and Don'ts

Performing the Heimlich maneuver correctly is crucial in saving someone's life who is choking. However, the immediate aftermath of the maneuver and its surrounding circumstances can sometimes lead to unintended circumstances. This article delves into the proper way to handle such situations and offers insights from a first aid instructor's perspective.

Proper Communication and Actions During a Heimlich Maneuver

When someone is choking, the first and most critical step is to ensure their safety. Asking simple yet direct questions can help you determine the nature and severity of the situation. Always ask:

Are you okay? This question is vital in assessing whether the person is conscious and responsive. Have someone call 911 in case the situation does not improve or if the person becomes unconscious. May I help you? Never assume you have permission to touch someone. Always seek verbal consent.

When the person becomes unconscious, you can proceed to provide assistance without hesitation. Otherwise, make sure to have someone call emergency services if needed.

The Importance of Professionalism and Etiquette

While performing the Heimlich maneuver, maintaining a professional and respectful demeanor is crucial. Here are some dos and don'ts to keep in mind:

What to Say:

“Are you choking?” This direct question helps in quickly identifying if the person is indeed choking. “Can you breathe?” This follows the initial question and can help you assess the severity of the situation. “May I help you?” Always seek verbal consent before offering physical assistance.

What to Avoid:

Avoid slang or inappropriate remarks like the example of saying “Jesus Christ you look terrible” or making sexual comments. This can be incredibly inappropriate in stressful and vulnerable situations. Avoid making jokes orcomments that could be misinterpreted. Even if the person seems to understand the humor, it’s better to err on the side of caution. Avoid any form of physical or verbal aggression. Remember, the person is likely in distress and may not respond as they normally would.

A Personal Experience: What Not to Say

In a personal experience, I found myself in a restaurant and had to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a colleague. After successfully dislodging the object, I mistakenly made a comment that I thought would lighten the mood, only to see it backfire drastically. Here is what I said and what happened:

“Jesus Christ you look terrible why dont I help you get cleaned up.

What happened next was chaotic. My colleague, who was choking and traumatized, misinterpreted my comment as misogynistic. The result was a confrontational situation, culminating in a slap, a barrage of anger, and a recording by a witness. While I managed to salvage my position in the company, the experience taught me valuable lessons about communication and professionalism.

Conclusion: What to Keep in Mind

Performing the Heimlich maneuver is a critical skill that can save lives. However, it is equally important to handle the aftermath and surrounding circumstances with care and professionalism. Always prioritize the safety and comfort of the person in distress and avoid any form of inappropriate language or comments that could escalate the situation.

Key Takeaways:

Communicate clearly and professionally. Seek verbal consent before offering physical assistance. Avoid any form of inappropriate language or comments. Stay calm and focused during emergencies.