What action should a CNA take if a patient starts to choke?

When a patient starts to choke, the appropriate action is to administer the Heimlich maneuver. This technique is designed to help dislodge an obstruction from a person's airway. The Heimlich maneuver applies pressure to the abdomen, which can effectively expel the object causing the choking. It's crucial to act quickly in such situations, as choking can lead to serious consequences if the airway remains blocked.

Encouraging a patient to drink water is not advisable because doing so could worsen the choking situation. The presence of an obstruction in the airway means that any additional substance could increase the risk of suffocation.

Performing back blows alone may also not be sufficient in an emergency choking situation. This method is sometimes used as an initial step, but it should be combined with abdominal thrusts for it to be effective, especially in conscious adults.

Seeking emergency help is important in a choking scenario, particularly if the Heimlich maneuver is ineffective. However, waiting to call for help before attempting to intervene could delay critical assistance and increase the risk of harm to the patient. Immediate action is vital in addressing the obstruction promptly.