How to Clear an Obstructed Airway
There may come a time in life when you come across a person who has been in an accident or has an injury, which caused an obstructed airway. The obstruction can keep a person from getting air, which can suffocate them. They need the item removed as soon as possible. The best technique to clear the obstructed airway with is the finger sweep technique.
- Determine if the airway is obstructed. Tilt the head back by lifting the chin. Look in the airway. Listen for breathes. Place your hand over the mouth to check for breaths. Proceed to the next step if you find the airway obstructed
- Pinch the nose and cover the person’s mouth. Blow air into the person’s airway. Reposition the person’s head if the air does not go through.
- Do not reposition the head if the spinal cord is injured. Lead the head as it was found. Instead grab the chin and tongue with one hand. Pull the jaw toward their feet.
- Look in the mouth for the obstruction. Take your finger and sweep the mouth and airway. Repeat this process until the airway is cleared.
- Call the EMTs or paramedics immediately if the airway does not clear within a minute.