American Lifeguard Practice Exam

What is the appropriate action when you identify a choking child who is responsive?

1. Give them water to drink

2. Perform abdominal thrusts while they are standing

3. Stand behind them and give back blows followed by abdominal thrusts

4. Lay them down and begin CPR

The correct answer is: Stand behind them and give back blows followed by abdominal thrusts

When you encounter a responsive child who is choking, the appropriate action is to stand behind them and give back blows followed by abdominal thrusts. This method is recommended because it utilizes a combination of techniques that can help dislodge the object causing the obstruction. Back blows are effective because they leverage the force of gravity and the body's natural movement to increase the chance of dislodging the item from the airway. Administering these blows between the shoulder blades with the heel of your hand can create sufficient force to help clear the obstruction. If the back blows fail, performing abdominal thrusts—also known as the Heimlich maneuver—adds additional pressure to the abdomen, which can further help expel the blockage. This approach is especially important for children, who may not have the same lung capacity or strength as adults. It is crucial to ensure that the child remains in a position that maximizes the effectiveness of these interventions. Techniques such as giving water could worsen the situation by causing the object to move further into the airway. Laying the child down and beginning CPR is inappropriate for a responsive individual and should only be considered for an unresponsive child who is not breathing. Overall, standing behind the child to perform back blows and abdominal thrusts is the most suitable