skip to main content

Adult choking — DIPIMC MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

EasyResuscitationAdult chokingDIPIMCDipIMC

At a restaurant, a conscious adult suddenly clutches his throat, cannot speak and is making no effective coughing sound. He is still standing and is becoming distressed. What is the most appropriate immediate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Give up to five back blows, then up to five abdominal thrusts

In an adult with severe airway obstruction who cannot cough effectively but is still conscious, the treatment is up to five back blows alternating with up to five abdominal thrusts, repeated until the obstruction clears or the patient becomes unconscious. Blind finger sweeps may push the object further in and are not advised. Compressions are started once the patient becomes unresponsive. Pearl: an effective cough should be encouraged and not interrupted, but its absence here mandates active intervention.

Reference: Resuscitation Council UK Guidelines 2025 (Adult Basic Life Support); Resuscitation Council UK (Guidance: Choking)