Make a Splash with the 2025 Red Cross Lifeguard Practice Test – Dive into Success!

When a victim is conscious but choking, performing abdominal thrusts is the appropriate response. This technique is specifically designed to help clear a blocked airway caused by an object lodged in the throat. Abdominal thrusts create an upward force that can generate enough pressure to expel the object obstructing the airway.

One key aspect of this response is that it directs efforts towards safely dislodging the object while the victim is still able to breathe and respond. This is crucial, as the abdominal thrusts empower the individual to remove the obstruction effectively rather than relying solely on external help or inaction.

Encouraging the victim to cough is indeed important in certain situations, as a strong cough can sometimes dislodge a small object. However, if the victim cannot breathe, speak, or cough effectively, abdominal thrusts become necessary to prevent the situation from worsening.

Administering back blows can be effective in certain choking scenarios, particularly when the victim is an infant, but for a conscious adult or child who is able to respond, abdominal thrusts are the most recommended course of action. Calling emergency services is important if the situation does not resolve quickly or if the victim loses consciousness, but it does not directly address the immediate need for clearing the airway.