Choking in a child over 1 year old is most effectively treated with which maneuver?

• A. Back Blows
• B. Chest Thrusts
• C. Abdominal Thrusts
• D. Chest Compressions

Answer: (C)

Choking happens when a foreign object blocks the airway, and the goal is to generate a quick rise in airway pressure to pop the object out. For a conscious child older than one year, abdominal thrusts are the most effective way to relieve a complete airway obstruction. The quick inward and upward thrusts above the navel create enough pressure to expel the blockage from the airway. Back blows are generally used for infants under one year, and chest thrusts are reserved for specific situations like pregnancy or when abdominal thrusts aren’t appropriate. If the obstruction doesn’t improve, keep repeating the abdominal thrusts and call for help; if the child becomes unresponsive, start CPR and check the mouth for the object before giving breaths.