Where should you place your fist when performing abdominal thrusts?

When performing abdominal thrusts, the correct placement of your fist is just above the navel. This location is critical because it effectively targets the diaphragm, which is the primary muscle involved in expelling air from the lungs during a choking situation. By placing your fist above the navel and angling it inward and upward, you create the necessary force to push upward against the diaphragm, which helps to dislodge an obstruction from the airway.

Placing the fist either above the chest or on the ribs would not be effective, as these areas do not facilitate the upward thrust needed to clear the airway. Similarly, positioning the fist just below the navel could be ineffective or even dangerous, as it may not provide the necessary pressure needed to dislodge an object from the airway. Thus, proper fist placement just above the navel is essential for the success of the maneuver and for the safety of the person in danger of choking.