My baby choked while eating: how do I give first aid?

First aid for choking in babies differs based on the baby's age. In babies under 1 year, the Heimlich maneuver is not used; instead, back blows and chest thrusts are used.

If your baby is coughing, crying, or making sounds: The airway is not completely blocked. Encourage your baby to keep coughing; don't hit their back or put your finger in their mouth — this can push the object deeper.

If your baby can't cough, can't make sounds, is turning blue, or losing consciousness (complete choking):

1. Position your baby on your forearm, face-down, with their head lower than their body. Support the head with your hand, don't press the jaw — you can block the airway.

2. Give 5 firm but controlled blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand.

3. Turn your baby face-up, supporting their head (head still lower than body). Place two fingers on the center of the chest (level with the nipples) and push down 5 times quickly — each push should be about 4 cm deep.

4. Alternate back blows and chest thrusts until the object comes out or your baby loses consciousness.

If your baby loses consciousness, call 112 immediately and start CPR (chest compressions + rescue breaths).

Practicing these maneuvers on a baby doll makes proper application much easier in a panic situation. Turkish hospitals' emergency departments and Turkish Red Crescent first aid training offer hands-on courses on this.