Rationale and key points Choking, or foreign body airway obstruction, is a common, yet treatable, cause of accidental death. This article aims to provide an overview of the skills required when faced with this emergency in adults, including how to recognise this emergency, the immediate management and treatment required, and the necessary aftercare. » Choking usually occurs when a person is eating or drinking. » An obstruction may classified as mild or severe. » For a severe obstruction in a conscious person, it may be necessary to administer back blows and/or abdominal thrusts to remove the obstruction from the airway. Reflective activity 'How to' articles can help to update your practice and ensure it remains evidence based. Apply this article to your practice. Reflect on and write a short account of: 1. How this article might change your practice when managing adults who are choking. 2. Positive elements of your current practice and those that could be enhanced.
Keywords: airway management; airway obstruction; choking; clinical procedures; clinical skills; emergency care; foreign body airway obstruction.