Question

A nurse is assisting a client who is eating at mealtime. The client grabs her neck with both hands and appears frightened. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

a) Administer abdominal thrusts
b) Encourage the client to take a drink of water
c) Perform back blows
d) Call for emergency assistance

Answer 1

If a client grabs their neck and appears frightened while eating, it may indicate choking. The nurse should perform the Heimlich maneuver and call for emergency assistance if necessary.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a client grabs their neck with both hands and appears frightened while eating, it may indicate choking. The nurse should first perform the Heimlich maneuver, which involves giving back blows and abdominal thrusts to help force the lodged object out of the airway. If these steps fail, the nurse should call for emergency assistance immediately.