Please take this opportunity to have conversations about choking prevention with those you support, families, in staff and team meetings. Share information available on the Department’s wesbite through emails, newsletters and in writing. Together, we can raise awareness and reduce choking related incidents for Ohioans with developmental disabilites. Thank you.
As you know, choking related incidents are often the most preventable medical emergencies and deaths for Ohioans with IDD. Last year, 17 people died of choking related incidents. Fortunately, in 381 occurrences, staff acted fast and saved a life! Back blows (104) or abdominal thrusts (277) were utilized those times to assist a choking person. Pacing, incorrect diet textures and lack of proper supports were identified as contributing factors in these incidents. These incidents occurred in all different settings (family homes, individual homes, Developmental Centers, ICFs, in the community, workshops) to people of all ages.
http://dodd.ohio.gov/HealthandSafety/Pages/Tool-Kits.aspx