glossary-chest-thrusts
Chest Thrusts
Definition: Firm pushes on the chest used in two different emergencies: Choking and CPR. The technique and timing are different depending on which situation you're in, so it's important to know which one you're responding to.
For Choking (Object Stuck in the Airway): Used mainly for infants under 1 year old, alternated with back blows (five and five) until the object comes out. Place the palm of one hand, just below the nipple line, push down about 1.5 inches firmly, and let the chest fully rise back up between each thrust. The full recoil is what builds the pressure that expels the object. Chest thrusts are also used as an alternative to abdominal thrusts for choking adults who are pregnant, sitting, in a wheelchair, or much larger than the rescuer.
For CPR (Heart has Stopped): Used for any age infant, child, or adult at a rate of 100 to 120 pushes per minute, about the beat of the song "Stayin' Alive." Hand position and depth vary by age: two fingers about 1.5 inches deep for infants, one or two hands about 2 inches deep for children, both hands at least 2 inches deep for older children and adults. Let the chest fully rise between each push.
Parent Tip: The biggest difference is timing. In choking, you're doing five firm thrusts, then five back blows, then checking. In CPR, you're doing continuous compressions at a steady fast rate without stopping until help arrives or the person wakes up. If you've never taken a hands-on class, it's the single most valuable two hours a parent can spend knowing the difference in the moment matters more than memorizing it from a page.
Why It Matters: In both situations, the chest is being used to either move air out (choking) or move blood through the body (CPR). Getting the technique right buys time until paramedics arrive. Babies under 1 year never receive abdominal thrusts because their organs sit too close to the surface — chest thrusts are the safe alternative for infant choking.
Related Terms: AED, Airway, Back Blows, Choking, CPR, Heimlich Maneuver, LifeVac, Rescue Breathing
Written and reviewed by Jeremy Manke, Firefighter / Paramedic (22 years of emergency service)