If a choking victim becomes unconscious, what is the recommended next step?

If a choking victim becomes unconscious, what is the recommended next step?

• A. Begin Modified CPR with 30 compressions, check for object, and give two breaths.
• B. Continue abdominal thrusts until object is expelled.
• C. Call for help and wait.
• D. Open the airway and remove any visible object with a finger sweep regardless of safety.

Answer: (A)

When someone who’s choking becomes unconscious, the priority shifts to CPR with attention to the airway and any potential obstruction. Start chest compressions right away to keep blood flowing to vital organs. After delivering the compressions, open the airway and attempt to give rescue breaths to provide oxygen to the lungs. While you’re performing CPR, quickly check the mouth for a visible obstruction and remove it only if you can do so safely and quickly; do not blindly sweep the airway. If the object isn’t visible or removing it isn’t safe, continue with the cycles of compressions and breaths. This approach is used because keeping the circulation going and attempting ventilation are critical when the person is no longer breathing due to an airway blockage. Abdominal thrusts aren’t effective once the person is unconscious, and waiting for help or trying a blind finger sweep can cause more harm. If you can see and safely remove a clearly visible object, do so; otherwise resume CPR and call for help.

When someone who’s choking becomes unconscious, the priority shifts to CPR with attention to the airway and any potential obstruction. Start chest compressions right away to keep blood flowing to vital organs. After delivering the compressions, open the airway and attempt to give rescue breaths to provide oxygen to the lungs. While you’re performing CPR, quickly check the mouth for a visible obstruction and remove it only if you can do so safely and quickly; do not blindly sweep the airway. If the object isn’t visible or removing it isn’t safe, continue with the cycles of compressions and breaths.

This approach is used because keeping the circulation going and attempting ventilation are critical when the person is no longer breathing due to an airway blockage. Abdominal thrusts aren’t effective once the person is unconscious, and waiting for help or trying a blind finger sweep can cause more harm. If you can see and safely remove a clearly visible object, do so; otherwise resume CPR and call for help.