# Chest Thrusts

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.

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

## 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.

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First Aid Glossary · https://firstaidcoursesydneycbd.au/glossary/chest-thrusts · Australia Wide First Aid (RTO 31961).