Two Minutes! Heimlich Device Saves a Choking Child

“Doctor! Doctor!
My child is choking on a piece of candy!
She can’t breathe! Please save her!”

A frantic father rushed into the Emergency Medicine Department of Baoji High-Tech Hospital on the night of March 21st, carrying his five-year-old daughter in his arms. The quiet emergency hall was instantly filled with tension.

Hearing the desperate cries, the on-duty nurse immediately ran forward to help. Upon learning that the child had a foreign object stuck in her throat, she quickly alerted the emergency team. The doctor, recognizing the severity of the situation, immediately embraced the child from behind and performed the Heimlich maneuver. At that moment, the department director, Li Bo, arrived and shouted, “Bring the Sonmol Heimlich device!”

With the aid of the Heimlich device, the obstruction was removed within three to four attempts. The culprit? A round lollipop, approximately 2-3 cm in diameter. As soon as the candy was dislodged, the little girl stopped crying, and the redness on her face subsided. A collective sigh of relief swept through the medical team.

But their work wasn’t done yet. They closely monitored the child’s pulse and checked her airway to ensure her breathing was completely stable and her heart rate normal before handing her back to her father.

“Thank you, uncle!” the young girl said in a soft voice, her tiny arms wrapped around the doctor. Her father, still shaken, expressed his deepest gratitude. Following the doctor’s advice, they stayed for additional observation and X-ray checks before finally leaving, assured that she was completely safe.

The next day, the father returned with his daughter, presenting the medical staff with a silk banner that read “Dedicated and Orderly, Excellent Medical Skills”—a token of his immense gratitude.

The Life-Saving Two Minutes

This emergency rescue took only two minutes, but it left a lasting impact. While the Heimlich maneuver was applied immediately, the Heimlich device played a crucial role in saving the child’s life.

What is a Heimlich Device?

Also known as a throat vacuum device, the Sonmol Choking Rescue Device / Heimlich device is designed to remove blockages from a person’s airway by using negative pressure suction. It is commonly used in emergencies, post-surgical care, and for clearing airway obstructions. When operated correctly, it effectively maintains an open airway, preventing suffocation and secondary infections.

However, proper handling is essential! The device should only be used by trained individuals to ensure safety and effectiveness. Incorrect use may cause secondary injury, so professional training is highly recommended.

The Heimlich Maneuver: A Must-Know Skill

While the Heimlich device is a powerful tool, knowing the Heimlich maneuver can be life-saving in emergencies. Here’s how to perform it for different groups:

For Conscious Adults & Children Over One Year Old

1. Positioning: Stand behind the person and wrap your arms around their waist. Lean their body slightly forward.
2. Hand Placement: Make a fist with one hand and place the thumb side against their abdomen, just above the navel. Cover your fist with your other hand.
3. Thrusts: Perform quick, inward and upward thrusts to dislodge the object. Repeat 5-6 times until the obstruction is removed.

For Infants (Under One Year Old)

1. Back Blows: Place the baby face down along your forearm, head lower than the body. Use the heel of your hand to give 5 firm back blows between the shoulder blades.
2. Chest Compressions: If the object is not expelled, turn the baby over and give 5 chest compressions using two fingers on the lower half of the sternum. Alternate between back blows and chest compressions until the object is removed.

For Self-Rescue

If you’re choking and alone:

1. Make a fist and place it above your navel.
2. Lean over a sturdy chair or countertop.
3. Thrust yourself forcefully against the edge to dislodge the object.

Special Cases (Pregnant & Obese Individuals)

For pregnant women or overweight individuals, chest thrusts should be performed at the lower sternum, the same position as CPR compressions.

Unconscious Individuals

If the person becomes unresponsive, begin CPR immediately and call for emergency medical help.

Safety Reminder

• Even after a successful rescue, seek medical attention to rule out internal injuries.
• Do not perform the Heimlich maneuver on someone who is coughing or breathing! Only intervene if they are unable to breathe, speak, or make noise.

Prevention is Key: Protecting Children from Choking Hazards

This incident serves as a critical reminder for all parents. To keep children safe:

✅ Supervise meals: Always be present when your child eats, ensuring they chew thoroughly.
✅ Avoid small, hard foods: Nuts, hard candies, and whole grapes can pose serious risks.
✅ No eating while playing: Running or playing while eating increases the chance of choking.
✅ Teach safe eating habits: Encourage slow, careful chewing.
✅ Keep small objects away: Coins, small toys, and button batteries should never be within reach.
✅ Learn first aid: Knowing the Heimlich maneuver can mean the difference between life and death.

Every second counts in a choking emergency. Be prepared, stay informed, and always prioritize safety. Together, we can build a world where children grow up safely, free from preventable tragedies.

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