What is the recommended action if a patient with airway obstruction becomes unconscious?

• A. Begin CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths and remove obstruction if visible; call EMS
• B. Continue coughing until EMS arrives
• C. Wait for EMS to arrive without intervention
• D. Place the patient in a chair and monitor

Answer: (A)

When a patient with airway obstruction becomes unconscious, the priority is to restore both ventilation and circulation. Begin CPR with chest compressions and rescue breaths to provide oxygen to the body and keep blood flowing. If you can see the obstruction and it is easily removable, remove it without delaying CPR. Call emergency services promptly so advanced help can arrive. This approach directly addresses the lack of effective breathing and circulation while help is on the way.

The other options don’t intervene to restore breathing or circulation: continuing to rely on coughing isn’t possible when the person is unconscious, waiting for EMS without doing anything active fails to support life, and simply monitoring or sitting idle does not address the airway and breathing collapse.