# A choking baby under 1: what to do

> A choking baby under 1 year: when to let them cough, back blows and chest thrusts, calling 911, CPR

Safety · Reviewed 2026-10-19 against the sources below · https://livia.baby/learn/infant-choking

- If the baby is coughing hard or crying strongly, don't intervene: the cough is working. Stay with them and be ready to act.
- If they can't cough, cry or breathe: have someone call 911 while you start. Alone, shout for help and start.
- Up to 5 back blows: baby face down along your forearm, supported on your thigh, head lower than the body; quick, firm blows between the shoulder blades.
- Then up to 5 chest thrusts: turn the baby face up, supporting the head; heel of one hand on the middle of the breastbone just below the nipples; quick thrusts down.
- Repeat 5 back blows and 5 chest thrusts until the object comes out or the baby stops being alert.
- If the baby becomes unresponsive, stops breathing or turns blue: on a firm flat surface, start infant CPR, checking the mouth for the object before breaths. Alone: call 911 after 2 minutes of CPR.
- Only take an object out if you can see it; don't grab at it while the baby is alert.
- Call the baby's doctor afterwards, even if they seem fine.

## In Livia

Nothing to log in the moment: call 911 and start first aid. Afterwards, Livia's meal log keeps what was on the plate, which helps when you talk to the doctor.

## Sources

- [MedlinePlus (NIH)](https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/000048.htm)

_Education from the sources listed, not medical advice. If you're worried about your child, call your pediatrician; in an emergency, call 911._