In what situation might an EMD instruct a caller to use the Heimlich maneuver?

The Heimlich maneuver is specifically designed to assist someone who is experiencing a severe obstruction of the airway, which is a critical condition when a person is choking and is unable to breathe. In such situations, the individual may struggle to speak, cough, or breathe, signaling that their airway is blocked. An Emergency Medical Dispatcher (EMD) would instruct the caller to perform the Heimlich maneuver to help dislodge the object causing the obstruction, potentially saving the person's life.

The other scenarios described—severe headache, a cut requiring pressure, or an unconscious individual—do not involve choking or airway obstruction. While they each may require medical attention, none would warrant the application of the Heimlich maneuver, which is solely intended for cases of choking. Understanding this specific application is crucial for EMDs to effectively guide callers in emergency situations.