Which term refers to the rescue method of removing an object from the airway by a quick upward thrust into the diaphragm?

• A. Abductor wedge
• B. Abnormal Vital Signs
• C. Abdominal thrusts
• D. Abuse

Answer: (C)

Abdominal thrusts are used to relieve a choking airway by delivering a quick, upward thrust into the abdomen just below the diaphragm. This sudden pressure increases the air flow in the chest and helps expel the object blocking the airway, often restoring the person’s ability to breathe or cough forcefully.

In practice, you position your hands with a fist just above the navel, grip with the other hand, and give fast inward and upward squeezes. This method is standard for conscious adults and older children who are choking. If the person is pregnant or very obese, chest thrusts may be used instead. If the person becomes unconscious, switch to CPR measures.

The other terms listed don’t describe a rescue technique for clearing an obstructed airway. Abdominal thrusts specifically refer to this upward abdominal force that can dislodge the object.