What action should be taken if a choking victim can neither breathe nor cough?

When dealing with a choking victim who cannot breathe or cough, performing abdominal thrusts is the most effective immediate action. This technique, often referred to as the Heimlich maneuver, is designed to create an artificial cough by exerting pressure on the abdomen, which can help to expel the object blocking the airway.

In situations where the airway is obstructed, the body's natural reflexes to cough or breathe are ineffective, making it crucial to apply a technique that can generate sufficient force to dislodge the obstruction. Abdominal thrusts involve making a fist with one hand, placing it just above the victim's navel, and grasping it with the other hand to pull inward and upward. This motion can generate the necessary pressure to push the trapped object out.

Other options, such as checking the mouth or starting back slaps, might be useful in certain situations but are not the first-line response when a person is unable to breathe. Additionally, while calling for emergency help is vital, it should be done after or simultaneously while administering care, as immediate action can prevent loss of consciousness and potential death.