When we care for a child, from tiny tots to our grownup kids, there is so much to think about and to consider along with decisions to make to keep them safe and protected.  First Aid is one of those things we either put on the top of our list of priorities as a precautionary approach or it may be a training we consider at some point down the line, if or when you do ever decide to take part, it is invaluable learning.

So, when Siobhan Butler, a qualified general and paediatric nurse, mum of 4 and owner of First Aid for Everyone, a company which specialises in supplying Paediatric First Aid Training , agreed to chat with me about the common concerns of choking in children I was delighted. 

We not only spoke about the differences and signs of gagging versus choking but also what is the first thing you should do if a child appears to be choking? At what point should you call the emergency services? And her top tips on what a parent or caregiver can do to prevent choking, including food and objects to be vigilant of.

From the early stages of weaning, it’s often during these times that we experience our children gagging, it’s scary but it is part of the process that is natural, however if you have ever experienced a child choking or wondered what to do if you had to respond, Siobhan’s simple and reassuring advice will give you both awareness and peace of mind. Please note this advice is for children aged 1 years old and above.

Frequently Asked Questions about what to do when a child above 1 year old  is choking

What is the difference between a child choking and a child gagging?

What is gagging?

Gagging is a normal part of the weaning process and it is the natural way your baby's body protects itself from choking.  A baby’s gag reflex is farther forward in the mouth when you start them on solids. This protects them and helps to prevent them from choking. (It will move back as the baby gets older.)  As a result, coughing, gagging, and pushing food out of the mouth is quite common. Eating solid foods is a new skill for your baby to learn. Your baby may gag a lot, but that’s just their body keeping them safe as they learn.

Fact 

When a child is gagging there is noise as they attempt to clear the airway.

What is choking?

Children can choke on anything from food to small objects that are found around the home.

The signs of a child choking are:

• They appear to be coughing but no sound is coming out - this is sometimes called a silent cough

• They are unable to cough

• Their face may be pale

• Their lips may be blue

• There may be lots of spit (saliva) but no sound

What are the main objects that cause choking in a child? 

Children can choke on anything at all from small objects to food. Anything they put into their mouth can be a choking hazard. 

Foods to be vigilant of

Typical choking hazards are grapes, popcorn, sausages, marshmallows and lollipops.

Objects to be vigilant of

In addition, small toys, lids of bottles, batteries, or anything circular that may block an airway.

What is the first thing you should do when a child is choking? 

 Ask the child the following 

1. Are you choking and can you cough? 

2. If there is NO sound then you start with 5 back slaps and 5 abdominal thrusts. 

3. Get down to the same level as the child. 

4. Repeat each cycle 3 times if the object has not been dislodged. 

5. At this stage get someone to call 112 or call yourself (pop phone on speaker) and continue until the object is dislodged.

At what point should a parent/caregiver call emergency services? 

Never be afraid to call the emergency services if you feel you need to. However, in the case of a child choking, if the ambulance has not been called after the 3 cycles previously mentioned, then you or someone else need to get help.

What can a parent/caregiver do to prevent a child from choking? 

 Top Tips

1. A good tip would be a case of “prevention is better than cure” So, get on the ground at the level of the child and check there are no objects / food lying around. 

2. Ensure that children sit at the table at mealtimes and are never left unsupervised.

3. Even if the object has been dislodged you still need to get your child checked out medically. There can be damage done that may not be obvious after doing an abdominal thrust.

4. As a mum to 4 children, my main advice would always be, trust your own instincts and get help if you feel you need it.

About Siobhan and First Aid for Everyone

Siobhan who is extremely passionate about her work, established First Aid for Everyone in 2009 on the basis that there was little first aid training available in Dublin.  She worked for over 20 years in an acute hospital setting, travelling and worked in the UK, Saudi Arabia, and Australia.

Like most mums, over the years, Siobhan has encountered many scenarios where her first aid skills as well as her nursing background has come in handy.

You can find Siobhan and all upcoming First Aid courses on www.firstaidforeveryone.ie She is also running a joint weaning and choking first aid workshop with Dietician, Caroline O’ Connor of Solid Start.ie on Wednesday 28th of April from 7.30-9.30pm (bookings can be made on website above).

As parents, it’s always helpful to know what to do or be kept informed in different eventualities, however, we are not always going to have the answer each time.  Trust your gut and if learning about basic first aid provides reassurance for you and your family then that is what matters.

If you are feeling overwhelmed or facing challenges with your children, I am here to help, I offer tailored 1 to 1 parent support sessions and Corporate Parenting Talks. Get in touch with me today at aoife@parentsupport.ie or if you are interested in creating a happier and calmer home I offer a Video Based Positive Parenting eLearning Course.