Board of Legal SpecializationPractice Exam

What should be done if a child's airway is obstructed, and they are unable to cough?

1. Perform abdominal thrusts only

2. Perform abdominal thrusts with back blows

3. Wait for them to cough before acting

4. Call their parents for consent

The correct answer is: Perform abdominal thrusts with back blows

When a child's airway is obstructed and they are unable to cough, it is crucial to take immediate action to clear the obstruction. Performing abdominal thrusts is a recognized method for relieving choking; however, combining abdominal thrusts with back blows enhances the effectiveness of the technique. The rationale behind using both approaches is that back blows can help dislodge the object that's causing the airway blockage. The force from these strikes can create enough pressure to propel the object upward and out of the airway. Following this, abdominal thrusts generate significant upward pressure on the diaphragm, which can further assist in expelling the obstruction. Using only abdominal thrusts may not provide the comprehensive response needed in such an emergency, as it may not be sufficient to fully clear the airway. Waiting for the child to cough is inappropriate in this situation because it assumes they are able to manage their own airway, which they are unable to do if they are choking. Calling for the parents for consent is not a primary concern in an emergency situation where immediate intervention is critical for the child’s safety. Time is of the essence, and it's essential to act quickly to prevent further harm. Thus, performing abdominal thrusts along with back blows is the most effective and recommended response in this scenario.