What should you do if back blows and abdominal thrusts are not effective?

When back blows and abdominal thrusts are not effective in relieving a conscious choking victim, it is essential to escalate your response by utilizing basic and advanced airway management techniques. These methods may include performing a head-tilt-chin-lift maneuver or, if trained, employing advanced airway techniques such as using a bag-valve-mask (BVM) device or an oropharyngeal airway, depending on the situation and the level of training.

Using these techniques can help to ensure that the airway is opened, potentially allowing for the expulsion of the obstruction or the provision of rescue breaths if the victim becomes unconscious. Additionally, combining these airway management strategies with effective breaths can maintain oxygenation levels and support the individual until emergency services arrive.

Repeatedly trying the same technique would not be effective if the current methods are failing, and waiting for the patient to recover without further intervention could lead to severe complications or death. Similarly, while calling for emergency services is crucial, it should be accompanied by ongoing efforts to manage the airway, ensuring that the patient receives immediate care while awaiting professional assistance.