What is the recommended first aid for choking in an infant under 1 year?

• A. Slapping on back vigorously
• B. Chest compressions
• C. Heimlich maneuver
• D. Back blows and chest thrusts

Answer: (D)

Choking in an infant under 1 year is treated with back blows and chest thrusts. This method uses controlled, age-appropriate techniques to dislodge the object without risking injury to a tiny chest or abdomen. Start with the infant facing down along your forearm, head lower than the chest and supported, and give up to five firm back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If the obstruction persists, turn the infant over and place two or three fingers on the lower half of the sternum, delivering about five chest thrusts to compress the chest gently but firmly. Alternate five back blows and five chest thrusts until the object is expelled or the infant can breathe, cough, or cry.

If the infant becomes unresponsive at any point, begin CPR with rescue breaths and chest compressions, and call for emergency help.

Slapping the back vigorously isn’t the recommended approach because it’s not as controlled and can increase injury risk. The Heimlich maneuver isn’t used for infants, and chest compressions alone won’t clear a choking airway when the infant is conscious.