Most parents experience a choking episode with their children at some point, and newborns are especially vulnerable to choking. For this reason, it's a good idea to take an infant CPR and first-aid class. If you notice that your newborn is choking, have someone call 911 right away. Then administer care until help arrives.
Coughing
When a baby coughs or gags, her airway is only partially blocked, according to pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Allow your child to continue coughing because this is the most effective way to remove the object that is blocking her airway. If she stops coughing and appears to be having trouble breathing, call 911 and begin first aid.
Back Blows
If your baby is not coughing or gagging, position her so that her head is slightly lower than the rest of her body. This makes it easier for an object lodged in her airway to come out, the American Academy of Pediatrics explains. Turn her face down and administer five blows with the heel of your hand in between her shoulder blades.
Chest Thrusts
After giving your baby back blows, turn your baby over while supporting her head. Place two or three fingers in the center of her chest just below her nipples. When you feel a slightly soft, compressible area, you've found the right spot. Compress her chest using your fingers five times. In between compressions, allow her chest to rise again before beginning the next compression. Alternate five back blows to five chest thrusts.
Unconscious Babies
An unconscious baby needs CPR. To do this, tilt your child's head back so that her airway is open. Look in her mouth and you will be able to see when her throat and airway are open. Using your mouth, cover your baby's nose and mouth. Exhale for one second. Do this twice. If you see her chest rise, she is taking in air. Continue giving her two breaths in a row, pausing between each set of two breaths, until help arrives.
References
- "The Portable Pediatrician"; William Sears, M.D., et al.; 2011
- "Caring for Your Baby and Young Child"; American Academy of Pediatrics; 2009
- "Health, Safety and Nutrition for the Young Child"; Lyn R. Marotz; 2011
