CHOKING

UNIVERSAL CHOKING SIGN -- Person grabs neck with both hands.

• If student can speak, breathe or cough, do not interfere; be available to assist if needed.

• Ask “Can you speak? Are you choking?”
• If student cannot cough or speak, DO NOT leave student alone.
• If student is choking, perform Heimlich maneuver if trained to do procedure.
• Continue Heimlich maneuver until object if expelled or student becomes unconscious.
• If student does become unconscious, call 911 or local emergency response team. 
• If object is expelled, the student needs CPR and you are trained in CPR, start resuscitation measures.

• Notify parents and describe emergency situation.  Request the parents accompany or meet student at the medical facility.  If parents are unavailable, contact the ‘alternate’ emergency contact person.
• Call 911 or local emergency response team.
• A detailed incident report should be initiated immediately.
• Notify school nurse.