What is the recommended response for a choking adult?

When responding to an adult who is choking, the recommended action is to perform back blows followed by abdominal thrusts, often referred to as the Heimlich maneuver. This approach is effective because it utilizes a combination of techniques to dislodge the object blocking the airway. Back blows help to create pressure that can force the object upward, while abdominal thrusts generate a quick upward pressure that can expel the obstruction from the airway.

Encouraging someone to drink water is not effective in this situation, as it can make the choking worse or lead to aspiration. Waiting for the person to cough it out could also be dangerous; if the cough is ineffective, the airway may remain blocked, leading to serious complications. While calling for emergency services is important in many medical situations, immediate action to remove the obstruction is crucial in cases of choking to prevent asphyxiation. Thus, the correct method involves active intervention through back blows and abdominal thrusts to address the choking immediately.