What action should you take if the person who is choking cannot speak?

• A. Begin abdominal thrusts
• B. Start chest compressions
• C. Check for a pulse
• D. Call 9-1-1 immediately

Answer: (A)

When someone cannot speak while choking, the airway is blocked and the immediate goal is to relieve that blockage. Abdominal thrusts push air from the lungs upward, creating pressure that can expel the obstructing object from the airway. This direct action addresses the problem right away and is the most effective first response for a conscious adult who is choking.

Chest compressions, on the other hand, are used for cardiac arrest and won’t clear a blocked airway; attempting them while the object remains lodged can be ineffective and even harmful. Checking for a pulse isn’t the priority during a choking emergency because you need to act to clear the airway first. If you’re alone, call emergency services right away and continue attempts to dislodge the object; if the person becomes unconscious, transition to CPR and call for help.