⚠️ MedDeck is an educational and reference tool for seafarers. It does not replace professional medical advice, TMAS, a company doctor, or emergency services. In an emergency, seek appropriate medical assistance and follow your vessel's procedures.

EM-011

Choking

Airway obstruction requires rapid recognition and escalation if coughing is not effective.

What should I do first?

Recognize possible airway obstruction
Encourage effective coughing when the person can still cough forcefully
Obtain help and escalate if obstruction persists or the person becomes seriously compromised
If the person becomes unresponsive, transition to the appropriate emergency/resuscitation pathway
Seek professional assistance according to vessel procedures

What this may look like

Clutching the throat or inability to speak effectively
Weak or silent cough
Increasing distress, colour change, or inability to breathe
Collapse if obstruction is not relieved

What should I check?

Whether the person can speak or cough effectively
Level of distress and breathing effort
Responsiveness if condition worsens

What should I avoid?

Interfering with an effective cough
Blind finger sweeps in the mouth
Delaying help when the person is seriously compromised

When should I get medical assistance?

When obstruction persists or the person becomes seriously compromised
If the person becomes unresponsive
Contact your vessel's designated medical assistance/TMAS service according to vessel procedures

What information should I prepare for TMAS / medical assistance?

What the person was doing when symptoms started
Current ability to breathe, speak, or cough
Actions taken and current condition
Vessel position and communications details required by procedure

Important safety note

Detailed back-blow or abdominal thrust numbers are not included in this draft pathway
Follow vessel first-aid procedures and trained guidance

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