Colorado CNA Practice Exam

What should a nurse aide do first when a client starts to choke during a meal?

1. Stand behind the client and perform abdominal thrusts

2. Immediately call emergency number (911)

3. Encourage the client to cough forcefully

4. Check the client's mouth for any food particles

The correct answer is: Stand behind the client and perform abdominal thrusts

When a client starts to choke during a meal, the nurse aide should first stand behind the client and perform abdominal thrusts. Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, can help dislodge the obstruction from the client's airway and allow them to breathe again. It is essential to act quickly and effectively in this situation to prevent further complications. Calling the emergency number (911) is important, but the immediate focus should be on trying to clear the airway obstruction. Encouraging the client to cough forcefully or checking the client's mouth for food particles may not be as effective as performing abdominal thrusts in clearing the obstruction and ensuring the client's airway is clear.