When should you perform the Heimlich maneuver on a child?

The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is indicated specifically when a child is choking and unable to breathe or speak. In this situation, it is critical to intervene immediately to remove the obstruction blocking the airway. The inability to breathe or speak signifies that the airway is compromised, which can lead to serious consequences, including loss of consciousness or death if not addressed promptly.

Coughing, crying, and drooling excessively do not warrant the Heimlich maneuver. Coughing is a natural response to clear an airway and indicates that the child may still be able to breathe, so intervention in these scenarios could be unnecessary or even harmful. Crying typically means the airway is not fully obstructed, as the child can still vocalize. Drooling, while concerning, can occur for various reasons unrelated to choking and does not indicate a critical airway blockage requiring the Heimlich maneuver. Understanding these distinctions is vital for ensuring the appropriate response during a choking incident.