The nurse should begin by performing abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) on the responsive adult who is choking, continuing with cycles of thrusts and back blows as needed until the airway is clear or help arrives. If the person becomes unresponsive at any time, begin CPR with chest compressions and check the mouth for the obstructing object between compressions. Key steps for a responsive adult who is choking:
- Stand behind the person, wrap arms around their waist, and perform 5 back blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of one hand.
- If the airway remains blocked, perform up to 5 abdominal thrusts (also called the Heimlich maneuver) by standing behind the person, placing a fist above the navel, grasping it with the other hand, and delivering quick inward and upward thrusts.
- Alternate between up to 5 back blows and up to 5 abdominal thrusts as needed.
- If coughing or able to speak, encourage coughing to help dislodge the object, but do not interfere with the patient’s effort.
- Call for emergency assistance if the blockage does not resolve promptly, or if the person becomes unable to breathe, speak, or cough, or loses consciousness.
Notes:
- Do not perform a full sequence of abdominal thrusts on pregnant individuals or those who are severely obese in the same way; modify as appropriate and seek professional guidance.
- If the person becomes unresponsive, immediately start CPR with chest compressions and open the airway to search for and remove any visible obstruction between cycles.
This guidance aligns with standard first aid protocols for choking in adults. If you’d like, I can tailor the steps to a specific setting (clinic, home, or workplace) or provide a brief step-by-step mnemonic.
