What is the abdominal thrust maneuver used for?

The abdominal thrust maneuver, commonly known as the Heimlich maneuver, is specifically designed to dislodge an obstruction in a choking person. This technique involves delivering quick, upward thrusts to the abdomen to create enough pressure to expel an object obstructing the airway. When a person is choking, their airway is blocked, which prevents them from breathing and can be life-threatening. The abdominal thrusts generate forceful action to relieve the blockage, making it a crucial skill for lifeguards and first responders.

Using this method effectively can quickly restore the person's ability to breathe, emphasizing the importance of recognizing choking signs and responding promptly with the right technique. Other options, such as performing CPR on a child, lifting a person out of the water, or soothing someone in shock, do not accurately reflect the purpose of the abdominal thrust maneuver. Each of those situations requires different skills and techniques suited to their specific needs.