1.0 Understanding and Responding to Airway Obstruction

Airway obstruction—whether from choking, suffocation, or drowning—is a critical, time-sensitive medical emergency. The obstruction of the respiratory tract prevents oxygen from reaching the body’s vital organs, leading to a cascade of life-threatening events. In these situations, the rapid and correct application of first aid is often the deciding factor between life and death. Understanding the fundamental skills covered in this handout is an essential responsibility for everyone.

Suffocation occurs when the body is deprived of sufficient oxygen due to a blocked airway. As oxygen levels fall, vital organs, particularly the brain, begin to lose function. This process can cause irreversible damage or death in a matter of minutes. In response to oxygen deprivation, the body instinctively panics, and breathing efforts become frantic but ineffective. This struggle can quickly lead to a slowing heart rate, loss of consciousness, and ultimately, cardiac arrest.

The first step in providing effective aid is learning to recognize the signs of an emergency.