Which maneuver is described as five quick thrusts inward and upward into the abdomen?

• A. Back blows
• B. Chest thrusts
• C. Chest compressions
• D. Abdominal thrusts

Answer: (D)

Abdominal thrusts relieve a choking airway obstruction in a conscious person by creating a quick surge of air from the lungs. The maneuver delivers five rapid inward and upward thrusts into the abdomen, just above the navel, to compress the air and push the obstructing object out of the airway. This sudden pressure dislodges what’s blocking the airway, making it the correct technique described. It’s distinct from back blows, which strike the back to loosen the object; chest thrusts, which push on the chest and are used when abdominal thrusts aren’t safe or appropriate; and chest compressions, which are for CPR to circulate blood rather than clear an airway.