In which situation should chest thrusts be administered instead of abdominal thrusts?

Chest thrusts should be administered instead of abdominal thrusts when the person is in a situation where abdominal thrusts could cause harm or are ineffective. This typically applies to individuals who may be seated, such as those in a wheelchair, where applying abdominal thrusts is not feasible due to their position or the mechanics of the situation.

In this case, administering chest thrusts can provide a safer and more effective means of dislodging an object that is causing choking. The chest thrust technique uses inward and upward thrusts applied just above the diaphragm, which can be performed without the need for the individual to be standing or in a specific position, making it suitable for those who are unable to receive abdominal thrusts.

This approach is also significant in preventing potential injury that could arise from the application of abdominal thrusts, which may include rib fractures or damage to internal organs, particularly in individuals who have compromised mobility or who may be in a position where abdominal thrusts cannot be properly executed.