Final answer:
Back slaps and chest thrusts are essential first aid techniques for an infant choking emergency. For back slaps, use the heel of your hand to deliver up to five sharp slaps between the baby's shoulder blades. If unsuccessful, perform up to five chest thrusts using two fingers on the center of the chest.
Step-by-step explanation:
Performing back slaps and chest thrusts are critical techniques used in infant choking emergencies. When an infant is choking, they require immediate attention to clear the obstructed airway. If the infant can make noise or cough, you may encourage them to cough it out. However, in cases where the infant cannot cough, cry, or breathe, back slaps may be necessary. Turn the infant face down, using your thigh for support, and give up to five sharp back slaps between the infant's shoulder blades with the heel of your hand. If this fails to dislodge the object, you would then perform chest thrusts by turning the infant over and using two fingers to give up to five thrusts to the center of the chest. For an older person choking, begin by encouraging them to cough. If ineffective, deliver up to five back slaps forcefully between their shoulder blades. If the obstruction does not clear, you may need to perform the Heimlich maneuver. Remember to call for emergency medical care immediately if the Heimlich maneuver fails.