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title: "Chest Thrusts | First Aid Glossary"
description: "Chest thrusts are used in first aid to help dislodge an object from the airway when someone is choking."
canonical: "https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources/glossary/chest-thrusts"
---

# Chest Thrusts

[Resources](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources) › [Glossary](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/resources/glossary)

## What are chest thrusts and how do they help during choking?

Chest thrusts are a first aid technique used to treat severe choking when back blows fail. They create pressure in the chest to help expel an object blocking the airway.

Chest thrusts are a key first aid manoeuvre used to clear a completely blocked airway in someone who is choking and unable to breathe. They are usually performed after back blows have failed to remove the obstruction. The force created by a chest thrust increases pressure in the chest and airway, which can help force the object out. Each thrust should be quick and forceful, directed inwards towards the spine.

For infants under 1 year, chest thrusts are given with two fingers on the breastbone while the infant lies face-up along the rescuer’s forearm, with the head lower than the chest. Up to five chest thrusts are given, alternating with back blows if the airway remains obstructed.

If the person becomes unresponsive at any stage, begin CPR immediately and call 000. Avoid abdominal thrusts (Heimlich manoeuvre), as they are not recommended in Australia due to the risk of internal injury.

Chest thrusts are an important part of managing severe choking and can be life-saving when used promptly and correctly.

## Symptoms

- Inability to breathe, speak, or cough
- Clutching the throat
- Silent or high-pitched breathing
- Blue lips or skin (cyanosis)
- Sudden collapse or unresponsiveness

## How to perform chest thrusts:

1. Support the person's back.
2. Place the heel of your hand onto the lower part of the sternum.
3. Give up to 5 quick inward thrusts.
4. Alternate with back blows and call 000 if the airway remains blocked.

> Chest thrusts help clear a blocked airway by applying quick pressure to the chest when back blows don't work.

## Watch: Splinter Probe Safe and Effective First Aid Tool for Splinter Removal

[Watch on YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DPapsPfq8to)

## Learn this hands-on

A nationally accredited first aid course covers this and much more. [Find a course and check live session availability](https://www.australiawidefirstaid.com/#find-course).

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