If back blows do not dislodge the object in conscious choking, what is the next recommended step for an adult?

If back blows do not dislodge the object in conscious choking, what is the next recommended step for an adult?

• A. Call emergency services and wait.
• B. Perform the Heimlich maneuver (abdominal thrusts).
• C. Continue delivering back blows.
• D. Give shallow breaths.

Answer: (B)

When someone is conscious and choking, you start with back blows to try to dislodge the object. If those don’t work, the next step is abdominal thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver). Abdominal thrusts create a strong inward and upward pressure that can push the airway obstruction out. To perform them, stand behind the person, wrap your arms around their waist, place one fist just above the navel with your other hand grasping the fist, and thrust inward and upward sharply. Repeat until the object is expelled or the person can cough or breathe again. If the person becomes unconscious, call emergency services and start CPR. In pregnant or obese individuals, or if there’s abdominal surgery history, chest thrusts may be used instead of abdominal thrusts.

When someone is conscious and choking, you start with back blows to try to dislodge the object. If those don’t work, the next step is abdominal thrusts (the Heimlich maneuver). Abdominal thrusts create a strong inward and upward pressure that can push the airway obstruction out. To perform them, stand behind the person, wrap your arms around their waist, place one fist just above the navel with your other hand grasping the fist, and thrust inward and upward sharply. Repeat until the object is expelled or the person can cough or breathe again. If the person becomes unconscious, call emergency services and start CPR. In pregnant or obese individuals, or if there’s abdominal surgery history, chest thrusts may be used instead of abdominal thrusts.