CPR in an unresponsive adult choking victim differs primarily because the airway is obstructed by a foreign object, so the focus shifts to clearing the airway while maintaining circulation.

Key Differences in CPR for an Unresponsive Adult Choking Victim

• Airway obstruction priority: Unlike standard CPR, where the airway is assumed open, choking CPR prioritizes removing the blockage before effective breaths can be given

• Initial steps: After confirming unresponsiveness, the rescuer should open the airway by tilting the head back and lifting the chin, then look inside the mouth to try to remove any visible obstruction

• Chest compressions: Start high-quality chest compressions immediately to circulate blood, at a rate of 100-120 compressions per minute and depth of about 5-6 cm (2-2.4 inches)

• Rescue breaths: Attempt rescue breaths after chest compressions. If breaths do not make the chest rise (due to obstruction), return to chest compressions and try to clear the airway again before attempting breaths

• Modified technique: If rescue breaths fail, perform modified chest thrusts or back blows to try to dislodge the object before continuing CPR cycles

• No abdominal thrusts: Abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver) are used only for conscious choking adults, not for unresponsive victims. Once unconscious, CPR with airway clearing attempts is the recommended approach

• Call for emergency help: Always call emergency services immediately once an adult becomes unresponsive from choking

Summary

Aspect| Responsive Choking Adult| Unresponsive Choking Adult CPR
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Airway obstruction| Use abdominal thrusts (Heimlich)| Attempt to clear airway manually before breaths
Chest compressions| Not performed initially| Start immediately at 100-120/min, 5-6 cm depth
Rescue breaths| Not given if responsive| Attempt after compressions, check chest rise
Airway clearing| Encourage coughing| Look for and remove visible obstruction
Emergency response| Call if obstruction persists| Call immediately and continue CPR

In essence, CPR for an unresponsive choking adult integrates airway clearing maneuvers with standard CPR techniques, emphasizing chest compressions and careful attempts to remove the obstruction before rescue breaths