Choking is when an infant can't breathe because food, a toy, or
other object is blocking the airway (throat or windpipe).
Choking in infants is usually caused by inhaling a small object
that they have placed in their mouth, such as a button, coin,
balloon, toy part, or watch battery. The danger signs of choking
are: - Bluish skin color - Difficulty breathing - ribs and chest
pull inward - Loss of consciousness if blockage is not cleared -
Inability to cry or make much sound - Weak, ineffective coughing
- Soft or high-pitched sounds while inhaling DO NOT perform
these steps if the infant is coughing forcefully or has a strong
cry -- either of which can dislodge the object on its own. - Lay
the infant face down, along your forearm. Use your thigh or lap
for support. Hold the infant's chest in your hand and jaw with
your fingers. Point the infant's head downward, lower than the
body. - Give up to 5 quick, forceful blows between the infant's
shoulder blades. Use the heel of your free hand. IF THE OBJECT
ISN'T FRE