The C-A-B approach helps responders focus on what matters most, first.

• Ask, “Are you choking?”. If the person nods or is unable to respond, act immediately. Let them know you are trained in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and will assist.
  

• Position yourself behind them. Stand or kneel depending on their height.
  

• Place your hands correctly. Make a fist and place it just above the belly button. Grasp your fist with your other hand.

• Give abdominal thrusts. Deliver quick, upward thrusts to try and dislodge the object.
  

• Continue thrusts. Keep going until the person can cough forcefully, breathe, or until they lose consciousness.

• If the person is pregnant or too large for abdominal thrusts. Use chest thrusts instead.

• If the person becomes unresponsive. Begin adult or child CPR, depending on the victim’s age.

This chapter helps prepare you to act quickly and confidently during choking emergencies as part of your BLS for Healthcare CPR/AED and First Aid Combo Course Online Certification.