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If you can see the object blocking the airway, try to remove it with your finger. Only try to remove an object if you can see it. Continue 5 back blows followed by 5 chest thrusts until the object is dislodged or the infant loses alertness (becomes unconscious).
After removing the object that caused the choking, keep the baby still and get medical help. Anyone who is choking should have a medical exam. Complications can occur not only from the choking, but also from the first aid measures that were taken.
Review Date 2/10/2026
Updated by: Jesse Borke, MD, CPE, FAAEM, FACEP, Attending Physician at Kaiser Permanente, Orange County, CA. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.
