How should abdominal thrusts be performed on a conscious victim?

Performing abdominal thrusts, commonly known as the Heimlich maneuver, on a conscious victim involves delivering upward thrusts just above the belly button. This technique is crucial because it targets the diaphragm, which helps expel air from the lungs with sufficient force to dislodge the obstruction from the airway.

The correct placement is critical; positioning your hands just above the belly button allows for the most effective force. This upward motion increases intrathoracic pressure and forces the air upward through the trachea, helping to clear the obstruction.

In contrast, positioning in front of the victim could cause instability or reduce effectiveness if the rescuer cannot apply force appropriately. Quick downward thrusts do not align with the intended mechanism of expulsion and could be inefficient, as downward motions do not generate the necessary upward airflow to clear the airway. Finally, performing thrusts from the side of the victim is impractical, as it compromises the ability to apply force effectively. Therefore, the most effective approach is to deliver upward thrusts just above the belly button to maximize the chances of clearing the airway.