What is your immediate action if a patient begins to choke?

When a patient begins to choke, the immediate action is to perform back blows and abdominal thrusts. This approach is part of the Heimlich maneuver and is specifically designed to dislodge any object that may be blocking the airway. The reason this is critical is that effective abdominal thrusts generate considerable pressure in the abdomen, which can force the item obstructing the airway out, allowing the patient to breathe again.

While encouraging the patient to cough can be beneficial if they are still able to cough forcefully, it is not an action that will dislodge the obstruction nor is it suitable if the patient is unable to breathe. Calling for help is a proactive step, but immediate action must be taken to ensure airway clearance before additional assistance can arrive. Checking airway patency is essential but should occur after initiating the appropriate emergency response to clear the obstruction when a patient is actively choking. Thus, performing back blows and abdominal thrusts is the most effective immediate response in such situations.