What is the first step when someone experiences partial choking?

• A. Encourage coughing and speaking
• B. Perform abdominal thrusts
• C. Sit the person down and wait
• D. Call EMS and do nothing

Answer: (A)

Partial choking means air can still move, so the first step is to encourage coughing and speaking. Coughing is the body’s natural way to dislodge the object and keep air flowing, so stay with the person, speak calmly, and urge them to continue coughing. Abdominal thrusts are reserved for a complete obstruction when coughing stops or the person can’t speak or breathe. Sitting down and waiting isn’t helpful, and doing nothing isn’t appropriate because the situation can worsen. If coughing doesn’t clear the airway or the person deteriorates and can’t cough, speak, or breathe, call EMS and follow the trained steps to relieve the obstruction.