Final answer:
When a choking person becomes unresponsive, they should receive CPR starting with chest compressions. This will maintain circulation until professional help arrives or the patient recovers. Trained individuals should perform CPR to prevent causing harm.
Step-by-step explanation:
If you witness a person who was choking become unresponsive, and you've already sent someone to call 911, the next course of action is to begin chest compressions. This is critical because the patient is not breathing and might be suffering from a cardiac arrest due to the choking incident. It's essential to start CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) immediately to maintain circulation and oxygenation of vital organs, especially the brain. The compression of the chest needs to be at least 5 cm deep and at a rate of 100 compressions per minute. Constant, high-quality chest compressions are the priority, and you should continue CPR until professional help arrives or the patient regains spontaneous contraction.
It must be noted that while providing help, giving a strong back blow or offering a drink to an unresponsive patient is incorrect. Such actions could worsen the situation. If breathing is not soon restored, the brain can suffer irreversible damage due to lack of oxygen. Therefore, timely and proper application of CPR is crucial. It is also recommended that individuals get formally trained and certified in CPR to ensure they can perform it correctly and prevent possible harm such as broken ribs or liver damage caused by improper technique.