CNA Certification (Written Exam)Infection Control and SafetyHard
A nurse aide finds an unconscious resident on the floor of the dining room who was witnessed to be choking moments before collapsing. What is the aide's correct first action?
- ALeave the resident to get a suction device from the supply closet
- BPerform abdominal thrusts on the unconscious resident while standing behind them
- CCall for help and begin CPR, checking the mouth for a visible object before rescue breaths
- DRoll the resident onto their side and pat their back repeatedly
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Call for help and begin CPR, checking the mouth for a visible object before rescue breaths
When a choking victim becomes unconscious, the aide should call for help and begin CPR, checking the mouth for a visible foreign object before giving rescue breaths, rather than performing blind finger sweeps or standing abdominal thrusts. Chest compressions during CPR can help dislodge the obstruction.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Leaving the resident delays lifesaving care and abandons the emergency.
- B. Abdominal thrusts cannot be performed on an unconscious person in a standing position.
- D. Back blows are used for conscious infants or specific protocols, not the standard response here.
Unconscious Choking Victim
If a choking victim becomes unconscious, call for help and begin CPR, checking the mouth for a visible object before giving rescue breaths.
- Never perform standing abdominal thrusts on unconscious victim
- Chest compressions may help dislodge the object
- Check mouth for visible object before breaths, no blind finger sweeps
Memory trick: Down and out means CPR throughout