Prehospital Trauma Life Support (PHTLS) Practice Test 2026 – All-in-One Resource to Ensure Exam Success!

When a patient is exhibiting an obstructed airway, the most critical step is to attempt to clear the obstruction to restore adequate airflow. The correct approach involves using abdominal thrusts or back blows, as these techniques are specifically designed to dislodge objects blocking the airway.

Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, are performed by applying pressure to the abdomen to expel air forcefully, which helps to dislodge the obstruction. Back blows, which involve delivering forceful strikes between the shoulder blades, can also assist in mobilizing the obstruction.

Other options, such as encouraging the patient to cough, may be appropriate if the patient can still breathe and is capable of effective coughing. However, in the presence of a complete airway obstruction, encouraging coughing alone is not sufficient and can potentially delay more effective interventions. Administering oxygen is not appropriate if the airway is obstructed, as oxygen cannot be delivered effectively when the airflow is compromised. Similarly, chest compressions are indicated for cardiac arrest and not for resolving airway obstructions.

Thus, using abdominal thrusts or back blows is the recommended immediate care for a patient with an obstructed airway, as it targets the cause of the problem by clearing the airway to restore normal breathing.