What should NOT be done when performing the Heimlich maneuver on an infant?

When performing the Heimlich maneuver on an infant, it is crucial to avoid performing abdominal thrusts. This is because infants have delicate bodies and the technique used to treat choking in infants differs significantly from that used with older children and adults. Instead of abdominal thrusts, which can potentially cause injuries to their internal organs, the recommended approach includes back blows and chest thrusts.

By focusing on the safest methods for infants, such as back blows delivered between the shoulder blades and chest thrusts, you can effectively dislodge an obstruction without risking harm to the infant. The infant should be held in a proper position, typically face down along the forearm, which is securely supported and held at a downward angle to allow gravity to assist in dislodging the object.

Using the proper techniques not only ensures the infant's safety but also increases the effectiveness of the intervention.