New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

What is the correct method for clearing a severe airway obstruction in an unconscious adult patient?

1. Perform abdominal thrusts

2. Administer chest compressions

3. Use back blows

4. Perform a finger sweep

The correct answer is: Administer chest compressions

In the context of a severe airway obstruction in an unconscious adult patient, administering chest compressions is the correct method. When a patient is unconscious and cannot respond or cough, their protective airway reflexes are compromised, which means traditional methods such as abdominal thrusts or back blows may not be effective or appropriate. When chest compressions are performed in this scenario, they create increased pressure within the chest cavity. This pressure can expel the obstruction in cases of severe airway blockage, potentially clearing the airway. Additionally, performing chest compressions helps maintain circulation to vital organs until the obstruction can be relieved or advanced medical assistance arrives. While other methods may be applicable in different situations or for conscious individuals—such as abdominal thrusts for alert patients or using back blows for certain types of choking—chest compressions are prioritized for the unconscious patient due to their effectiveness in providing both airway clearance and maintaining blood flow.