What is the correct initial position when helping a choking adult?

What is the correct initial position when helping a choking adult?

• A. Stand or kneel behind the victim and wrap your arms around the waist.
• B. Stand in front of the victim and deliver chest compressions.
• C. Sit to the side and perform finger sweeps.
• D. Stand behind the victim without wrapping your arms.

Answer: (A)

When helping a conscious choking adult, the initial position is behind the person with your arms wrapped around their waist. This stance gives you secure control of the torso and the leverage you need to deliver abdominal thrusts effectively. Place one fist just above the navel and grasp it with the other hand, then deliver quick, upward inward thrusts to create the pressure needed to dislodge the blockage. Standing in front or to the side wouldn’t let you apply these thrusts properly, and performing finger sweeps is not advised because it can push the object deeper or cause injury. If the person becomes unresponsive, start CPR and call for help.