What is the recommended response if a choking person becomes unconscious?

• A. Continue giving abdominal thrusts.
• B. Shake the person and shout.
• C. Lower to the ground and begin CPR; if trained, attempt to clear the airway when possible.
• D. Wait for EMS to arrive while monitoring.

Answer: (C)

When a choking person becomes unconscious, start CPR immediately. The obstruction can no longer be cleared by coughing or speaking, so the priority is to restore circulation and breathing. Lower them to the ground and begin chest compressions right away, followed by rescue breaths. If you are trained, you may open the airway and attempt to remove the object during CPR if you can do so safely and without delaying compressions. Abdominal thrusts aren’t appropriate for an unconscious person, and waiting for help instead of starting CPR can waste crucial time. Keep CPR going until help arrives or the person regains consciousness and starts breathing.