Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, commonly known as CPR, is an emergency procedure that is used if someone is not breathing properly or if their heart has stopped. The combination of chest compressions and rescue breaths keep blood and oxygen circulating the body.
Choking is the third most common form of infant death in the UK, taking the lives of approximately 24 children under the age of 5 a year in England and Wales. Within a matter of minutes, a child deprived of oxygen can experience brain damage or worse – death, therefore it is important to take action and fast.
If a casualty is unconscious but breathing normally, we put them in the recovery position. This will keep their airway clear and open, plus it ensures that any fluid such as vomit and blood can drain out of the mouth, preventing choking.
