3.2.3. Respiratory Issues and Choking: First Aid Techniques

In elderly individuals, respiratory issues and choking are conditions that require prompt and effective in
tervention, particularly in those with chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma or COPD. For an elderly
person experiencing breathing difficulties, the first step is to keep the airway open by ensuring the patient
is in a comfortable position and loosening any tight clothing. If the patient has asthma or COPD, a rescue
inhaler should be used to alleviate symptoms. However, if the condition worsens, it is essential to call for
emergency medical assistance immediately.
Choking occurs when the airway becomes blocked, preventing the individual from breathing, and urgent
intervention is crucial in this situation. In a conscious patient, the Heimlich maneuver should be performed
to remove the obstruction. This method involves delivering quick abdominal thrusts to expel the foreign
object from the airway. If the obstruction cannot be cleared or the patient loses consciousness, emergency
medical help should be sought without delay. Timely and correct interventions in these situations are criti
cal in saving the life of an elderly individual.
Respiratory Issues: Elderly individuals with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma or COPD may
experience breathing difficulties. The following actions should be taken:
• Keep the Airway Open: Ensure the patient is in a seated position and remove any tight clothing.
• Use of Inhaler: If the patient has asthma or COPD, administer a rescue inhaler to alleviate symptoms.

• Call for Emergency Medical Help: If the condition worsens, seek medical assistance immediately.
• Choking: In choking situations, the airway becomes blocked, making breathing impossible. The following
steps should be taken:
• Heimlich Maneuver: Perform the Heimlich maneuver on a conscious individual to attempt to clear the
airway obstruction.
• Back Blows: For children and infants, administer back blows to dislodge the obstruction.
• Call for Emergency Medical Help: If the obstruction cannot be removed or if the patient loses consci
ousness, call for emergency medical assistance.