In a choking situation, if the person cannot breathe, speak, or cough, what should you do next?

In a choking situation where the person is unable to breathe, speak, or cough, performing abdominal thrusts is the appropriate response. This technique, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, involves delivering quick, upward thrusts to the abdomen, which can create enough pressure to expel the object blocking the airway. The goal is to forcefully push air from the lungs, potentially dislodging the obstruction.

Back blows, while they can be part of the initial response for infants or certain cases, are not the primary method for adults who are conscious and unable to breathe or talk. Conducting a secondary assessment is not applicable in this emergency scenario, as immediate action is needed to clear the airway. While calling for help is important in emergency situations, it should be done after you have attempted to assist the choking individual, as you may need to act quickly to prevent loss of consciousness or serious injury. Therefore, delivering abdominal thrusts is the most critical step in addressing the choke.