Adult ARC CPR/AED/First Aid Certification Practice Test 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

The appropriate action to take in the event of a choking incident in adults is to perform abdominal thrusts, commonly known as the Heimlich maneuver. This technique is designed to create a quick and forceful upward thrust against the diaphragm, which can help to expel the object blocking the airway. Choking can quickly lead to asphyxiation, so it's crucial to act promptly and effectively.

Abdominal thrusts are specifically intended to dislodge an obstruction stuck in the throat. When performed correctly, they can generate sufficient pressure to forcefully push the object out, allowing the person to breathe again.

Other methods, such as back blows, may be used in certain situations, but they are generally less effective for adults who are fully conscious. Chest compressions are used during cardiac arrest situations rather than choking events, as they focus on heart circulation instead of clearing an airway. Mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is irrelevant during a choking incident since the priority is to remove the obstruction first to re-establish normal breathing. Therefore, abdominal thrusts are the most effective method to address choking in adults.