Training on the Heimlich Maneuver for Mothers of Children With Disabilities

For a Safe Breath: Training on the Heimlich Maneuver for Mothers of Children With Disabilities in Cases of Foreign Body Obstruction

Foreign body obstruction is one of the most common causes of medical emergencies, particularly in childhood, and can lead to fatal outcomes if not treated promptly and correctly. Therefore, this study aims to examine the effect of hands-on Heimlich maneuver training for mothers of children with disabilities on the mothers' knowledge, skills, self-efficacy, and anxiety levels. Conducted as a randomized controlled trial, the study is planned to include 70 mothers (experimental group: 35, control group: 35) of children aged 1-8 years attending a private rehabilitation center in the Besni district of Adıyaman. Data collection tools will consist of a demographic information form, a Heimlich maneuver knowledge and skill test, and self-efficacy and anxiety scales. A pilot study will be conducted to evaluate the validity and reliability of the data collection tools, test their comprehensibility for the mothers, and identify potential problems that may arise during implementation. Prior to the start of the training, the knowledge levels of all mothers will be assessed via a questionnaire. The Heimlich maneuver training provided to mothers in the experimental group will be delivered hands-on using a pediatric Heimlich mannequin. One month after the training, a post-test will be administered to the mothers. Mothers in the control group will be informed about the study during the initial interview and will take a pre-test. One month after the training, the mothers will take the post-test. Mothers in the control group will be informed about the study during the initial interview and will take the pre-test. The post-test will be administered one month later, after which the mothers in this group will also receive maneuver training. The mothers' pre-test and post-test scores will be compared both within and between groups.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Be a mother of a child with a disability, aged 1-8, who is enrolled in a rehabilitation center.
2. Be 18 years of age or older.
3. Be able to read and understand the research protocol, provide written informed consent, and agree to participate.
4. Be physically able to participate in the training (standing/model-based exercises).

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Must have previously received professional Heimlich maneuver/first aid training (those who have taken a course within the last 2 years).
2. Those who are unable to participate in hands-on training due to physical limitations (e.g., severe heart disease, mobility issues).
3. Individuals determined to be unsuitable for training or assessments due to psychiatric or neurological conditions.
4. Children with severe respiratory system disorders (e.g., tracheostomy, severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia),
5. Children who have undergone heart surgery or have a serious cardiac anomaly,
6. Children with severe orthopedic or neurological disabilities for whom performing the Heimlich maneuver may be risky,
7. Children with congenital anomalies of the trachea or upper respiratory tract (e.g., tracheoesophageal fistula),
8. Children requiring mechanical ventilator support or continuous oxygen therapy.
9. Withdrawing from participation during the study or failing to attend any of the training/testing sessions.