Final answer:
The first method to clear a choked airway is encouraging the person to cough, followed by back blows. If unsuccessful, perform the Heimlich maneuver and call for emergency medical care if these steps fail.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a responsive patient is choking, the first method a provider should use to clear the obstructed airway is to encourage the person to cough. If this does not clear the obstruction, the provider should administer a few hard back blows. If these initial steps are unsuccessful in dislodging the object, the provider should then perform the Heimlich maneuver. This process involves abdominal thrusts that can help force the object out of the airway. The Heimlich maneuver is an important technique to learn and can be found through instructional resources. In case the Heimlich maneuver fails, it is critical to seek emergency medical care immediately.