How should a conscious choking adult be treated?

The treatment for a conscious choking adult primarily involves performing the Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts. This technique is designed to apply pressure to the abdomen, which can help expel the object blocking the airway. When done correctly, the maneuver creates enough force to potentially dislodge the object, allowing the person to breathe again.

Other options, such as encouraging the individual to drink water or simply tapping them on the back, are not effective in addressing the immediate life-threatening situation posed by choking, as they do not provide the same kind of force necessary to clear the airway blockage. Additionally, while calling emergency services is important if the situation escalates or does not resolve, the immediate and critical response when someone is choking is to perform the Heimlich maneuver to attempt to relieve the blockage without delay.