Final answer:
To treat a conscious choking victim, encourage coughing, apply back slaps, and use the Heimlich maneuver. For infants, use back slaps while holding them upside down. If unconscious, or in drowning situations, promptly administer CPR after removing the victim from the water.
Step-by-step explanation:
To treat conscious choking victims, first encourage them to cough to expel the object. If ineffective, deliver a few strong back slaps, and if this also fails, use the Heimlich maneuver. This procedure involves abdominal thrusts that can help force the object out of the victim's airway. If the Heimlich maneuver does not work, immediate medical attention is required. For infants, turn them upside down for back slaps. If a victim becomes unconscious, begin CPR promptly.
In the case of drowning, ensure to remove the victim from the water before starting CPR, as it is ineffective in water. Remember that unconscious drowning victims may still be rescued and potentially recover if they receive CPR within minutes and their airway was protected by laryngeal spasm, preventing water from entering the lungs.