Basic Life Support (BLS) Practice Exam

Which intervention should be implemented for a responsive adult who is choking?

1. 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts

2. 1 back blow and 1 abdominal thrust

3. Abdominal thrusts only

4. Heimlich maneuver alone

The correct answer is: 5 back blows and 5 abdominal thrusts

For a responsive adult who is choking, the recommended intervention is to perform a combination of back blows and abdominal thrusts. This approach is effective because it utilizes two different techniques to dislodge the obstruction from the airway. When a person is choking and still responsive, they may have a partial airway obstruction, leading to difficulty breathing but still retaining some ability to cough or speak. The back blows help create pressure from behind, which can help start to dislodge the object blocking the airway. The abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, apply upward pressure on the diaphragm, which can further assist in expelling the object. This combination maximizes the chance of clearing the airway quickly and effectively. Relying solely on abdominal thrusts could be insufficient in some cases, especially if the object does not respond to just one method. Hence, the multi-faceted approach of using both back blows and abdominal thrusts is crucial for the safety and efficacy of the intervention.