What should be done for a conscious choking adult?

In the case of a conscious choking adult, administering the Heimlich maneuver is the most appropriate response when the individual is unable to breathe or speak due to a foreign object obstructing their airway. The Heimlich maneuver involves standing behind the person, placing your arms around their waist, and delivering upward thrusts just above the navel. This action creates pressure in the abdomen that can dislodge the obstruction and allow the person to breathe again.

This method is a widely recognized technique for addressing choking emergencies and is specifically designed to provide immediate assistance. It is crucial because choking can lead to unconsciousness and death if the obstruction is not relieved promptly.

In contrast, providing water to drink may worsen the situation by further blocking the airway. Performing back blows can be effective in some situations but is more commonly used for infants or in combination with the Heimlich maneuver for adults. Encouraging a person to cough forcefully could be beneficial if they are capable of doing so without distress. However, if they are struggling to breathe and cannot cough effectively, the Heimlich maneuver should be prioritized to quickly remove the obstruction.