What should a rescuer do if they are unsure whether a person is truly choking?

If a rescuer is unsure whether a person is truly choking, asking if they can speak or cough is the most appropriate action. This approach allows the rescuer to assess the individual's ability to breathe and maintain an airway without immediately intervening with more invasive measures. If the person can speak, cough, or breathe, it indicates that their airway is not completely obstructed, and they may be able to clear the obstruction themselves.

This method also helps avoid unnecessary panic or distress for both the rescuer and the individual in distress. If the person is able to speak or cough, the rescuer can encourage them to keep coughing to expel the object, rather than rushing to perform abdominal thrusts, which could be inappropriate and potentially harmful if the airway is partially blocked.