Question

You are having dinner with a client when she suddenly puts her hand to her throat. She cannot speak and her face is beginning to turn blue. What do you do?

Answer 1

When someone is choking, they cannot speak, breathe normally, and may clutch their throat, turning blue due to lack of oxygen. Knowledge of the Heimlich maneuver is crucial, and calling emergency services is essential if you cannot safely assist the person.

Step-by-step explanation:

If you are having dinner with a client and she suddenly puts her hand to her throat, cannot speak, and her face is beginning to turn blue, it is indicative that she might be choking. Immediate action is needed to assist her. When someone is choking, they are unable to speak or cry out and may exhibit labored breathing with gasping or wheezing. The person may clutch at their throat or mouth, and if not aided promptly, may turn blue due to lack of oxygen, followed by unconsciousness. Being knowledgeable in the Heimlich maneuver or abdominal thrusts can be life-saving in such situations. It is critical to stay calm and, if unsure or unable to perform rescue maneuvers, call emergency services immediately for help.

Answer 2

Make a fist and place it just above the navel, thumb side in. Grab the fist with your other hand and push it inward and upward at the same time. Perform five of these abdominal thrusts. Repeat until the object is expelled and the person can breathe or cough on their own. (the Heimlich Menuver)