How is back slapping performed in conscious choking infants?

Back slapping in conscious choking infants is performed by holding the infant face down and delivering five firm back slaps between the shoulder blades. This technique is crucial because in infants, the airway may become obstructed due to objects like food or toys. The purpose of back slaps is to create enough force to dislodge the object causing the choking.

Holding the infant face down allows gravity to assist in the removal of the obstruction as the slaps encourage the object to move out of the airway. The specific placement of the slaps between the shoulder blades is essential as it targets the area where the impact can stimulate a reflex that may help expel the blockage.

This approach is focused on maintaining the airway while providing the necessary intervention to help the infant. Other options, such as placing the infant on their back or performing chest compressions, are either inconsistent with the AHA guidelines for treating choking in infants or are intended for different emergencies.