During what scenario should the Heimlich maneuver not be used?

The Heimlich maneuver is an emergency technique used to help someone who is choking. However, it is contraindicated when the victim is unconscious. In such scenarios, the chances of moving air through the airway become complex due to the lack of controlled breathing and muscular response.

When a person is unconscious, they are unable to cough or breathe effectively, which generally means airflow is obstructed. Instead of performing the Heimlich maneuver, which could lead to further complications like aspiration, it's crucial to activate emergency services immediately and begin CPR if needed. This focus on proper airway management and resuscitation techniques ensures that any obstructive risks are handled with care.

Coughing, particularly forceful coughing, indicates that the airway is only partially obstructed, and the individual should be encouraged to continue coughing as it may help expel the object on their own. In the case of a child under the age of three, modifications to the Heimlich maneuver or other appropriate strategies should be employed rather than standard approaches meant for adults.