For obese or pregnant victims, the chest thrust method is recommended for removing airway obstructions, since manual pressure to the abdominal area of these people would either be ineffective or cause internal damage.

CHEST THRUSTS STANDING TECHNIQUE

1. Bring your arms under the arms of the victim and encircle the lower chest, as shown in figure 10-7.

2. Position your hands as described for the abdominal thrust standing technique.

3. Keep your fist on the middle of the sternum (breastbone), not the lower part.

4. Apply pressure to the chest with quick, backward thrusts.

Figure 10-7.-Position for standing chest thrust.

CHEST THRUSTS RECLINING TECHNIQUE

This technique is performed with the victim lying flat, faceup.

1. kneel at the victim's side.

2. Place the heel of one hand on the middle of the sternum and cover with the other hand, keeping your fingers off the chest.

3. Give four downward thrusts.

4. Repeat cycles of chest thrusts and finger sweeps, following the same technique you would use with abdominal thrusts.