Which technique is commonly used to manage airway obstruction in adults?

Prepare for the Santa Clara County EMS Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Ensure your success on exam day!

The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is the correct technique for managing airway obstruction in adults because it specifically targets the removal of a foreign object from the airway. When a person is choking, this maneuver involves using quick, upward thrusts just above the navel to increase intra-abdominal pressure, forcing the diaphragm upward and creating a rapid expulsion of air from the lungs. This sudden rush of air can help dislodge whatever is blocking the airway.

The effectiveness of the Heimlich maneuver in adults makes it a critical skill taught in first aid and emergency response courses, as timely application can prevent asphyxiation and potentially save a life. Other techniques, such as back blows or the jaw thrust maneuver, may be suitable in specific scenarios or for different populations (e.g., infants or individuals with spinal injuries), but they are not the primary techniques recommended for adults experiencing airway obstruction caused by choking. Modified CPR, while essential in certain situations, is not directly aimed at clearing an obstruction.

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