When managing a choking adult, which maneuver should be performed first?

When managing a choking adult, performing abdominal thrusts first is the correct maneuver. Abdominal thrusts, commonly known as the Heimlich maneuver, are designed to create pressure in the abdomen to expel an object from the airway that is obstructing breathing. This technique is effective for dislodging food or other materials lodged in the throat, especially when the person is unable to breathe, speak, or cough effectively.

Back blows, while they can be part of the initial response for certain other situations, are not the first action taken for an adult who is choking in a severe manner. They are typically used for infants or as an adjunct to abdominal thrusts if the obstruction persists.

Chest compressions are usually associated with cardiac arrest rather than choking emergencies, and thus are not the appropriate first action for someone who is choking. Similarly, encouraging the person to cough might be suitable if they can still make sounds or breathe; however, if the individual cannot cough, talk, or breathe, abdominal thrusts are necessary to address the life-threatening obstruction.