North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is the first step in managing a conscious choking adult or child?

1. Begin CPR immediately

2. Administer back blows

3. Perform abdominal thrusts

4. Call for emergency assistance

The correct answer is: Perform abdominal thrusts

In managing a conscious choking adult or child, performing abdominal thrusts is the first and crucial step after ensuring that the individual is truly choking and unable to breathe or speak. Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, exert pressure on the diaphragm, which creates an artificial cough that can expel the object causing the blockage. This technique is effective because it can quickly dislodge items stuck in the airway of a conscious person. It's important to note that while other actions may be relevant in certain scenarios, they are not the initial response for a conscious choking victim. For instance, calling for emergency assistance is a necessary action if the situation escalates but should not delay the immediate intervention of administering abdominal thrusts, which could be life-saving. Administering back blows can be part of the response for choking, but it is usually recommended to do this in conjunction with or following abdominal thrusts, especially in adults. CPR is not indicated until the person becomes unconscious and is a step to take much later if other interventions fail.