What should you do for a conscious adult who is choking and cannot cough?

For a conscious adult who is choking and unable to cough, performing the Heimlich maneuver, or abdominal thrusts, is the appropriate action to take. This technique involves applying quick, upward pressure just below the ribcage to expel air from the lungs and create a forceful cough-like action that may dislodge the obstruction blocking the airway. It is critical to act quickly, as individuals who are choking are at immediate risk of suffocation.

Back blows, while they may seem beneficial in some cases with milder choking situations, are not effective for someone unable to cough forcefully. Encouraging them to drink water is not advisable as it may worsen the situation by further obstructing their airway. Leaving the person alone to resolve the choking could lead to a life-threatening emergency since they may lose consciousness and require urgent assistance. Thus, the Heimlich maneuver is the clear and decisive action to take in this scenario.