What should you do immediately after recognizing an airway obstruction in a conscious adult?

In the situation of a conscious adult experiencing an airway obstruction, encouraging the individual to cough is often the most effective and appropriate initial response. Coughing is a natural reflex that can help dislodge the obstruction in the airway. By encouraging the person to cough, you allow them to use their own bodily mechanisms to clear the blockage.

When an individual is able to cough, it indicates that they have some ability to breathe and vocalize, which is critical. Active coughing generates pressure in the lungs and forces air up through the trachea, increasing the chance of expelling the object causing the obstruction. This approach prioritizes the individual's autonomy and ability to help themselves in a critical moment.

Other measures, such as performing abdominal thrusts, become appropriate only if the individual is unable to cough effectively, speak, or breathe. Administering chest compressions and calling for emergency help are also not first-line interventions in this scenario, as they are more suitable for situations involving loss of consciousness or complete airway blockage.