During abdominal thrusts for choking in adults and children, in which direction should the thrusts be directed?

During abdominal thrusts for choking in adults and children, in which direction should the thrusts be directed?

• A. Downward
• B. Forward
• C. Sideways
• D. Upward

Answer: (D)

The technique relies on generating a quick rise in pressure inside the chest to pop the blockage out of the airway. Directing the thrusts upward toward the diaphragm focuses the force through the chest and airways, creating that sudden intrathoracic pressure needed to expel the object. Pushing downward, sideways, or forward would not create the same thoracic pressure and could be less effective or even harmful. So for conscious choking in adults and children over 1 year, the thrusts are delivered upward toward the diaphragm to maximize the chance of dislodging the obstruction.

The technique relies on generating a quick rise in pressure inside the chest to pop the blockage out of the airway. Directing the thrusts upward toward the diaphragm focuses the force through the chest and airways, creating that sudden intrathoracic pressure needed to expel the object. Pushing downward, sideways, or forward would not create the same thoracic pressure and could be less effective or even harmful. So for conscious choking in adults and children over 1 year, the thrusts are delivered upward toward the diaphragm to maximize the chance of dislodging the obstruction.