Which of the following describes an action that should NOT be taken during a choking incident?

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Prepare for The American Red Cross CPR Test. Engage with interactive flashcards and multiple choice questions, complete with hints and explanations, to ensure readiness for your certification!

During a choking incident, it is vital to take actions that help dislodge the object causing the blockage. The correct approach indicates that abdominal thrusts should be performed only if the person is not responsive, which aligns with established CPR protocols.

In a choking situation, if the individual is conscious and able to cough forcefully, it is encouraged because coughing is the body’s natural reflex to push the object out of the airway. Abdominal thrusts (also known as the Heimlich maneuver) are reserved for cases where the person is either unable to cough or has lost responsiveness. Following this protocol efficiently prioritizes the victim's ability to breathe while also ensuring that harmful interventions are avoided when they are able to assist themselves.

Understanding this distinction emphasizes the importance of assessing the responsiveness of the person in distress and applying the correct method to handle the situation effectively.