Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Intermediate Practice Exam

Initial treatment to dislodge a severe foreign body airway obstruction in a responsive infant involves:

1. Chest thrusts

2. Back blows

3. Abdominal thrusts

4. Encouraging coughing

The correct answer is: Back blows

In the scenario of a responsive infant experiencing a severe foreign body airway obstruction, the initial treatment involves performing back blows. This approach is fundamental because it effectively helps to dislodge the object that is blocking the airway. Back blows are administered while the infant is in a prone position (facing down) over the responder's forearm or thigh. The responder delivers a series of firm strikes between the infant's shoulder blades. This method capitalizes on the baby's natural reflexes and the gravitational effects to encourage the dislodging of the foreign body. It is also a gentle technique, which is crucial considering the infant's delicate physiology. Other techniques such as abdominal thrusts are not recommended for infants due to the risk of injury and complications. Chest thrusts are more appropriate for older children and adults. Encouraging coughing might also not be effective in a severely obstructed airway situation, especially if the infant is unable to cough effectively. Thus, the emphasis on back blows as the correct initial treatment method is well-suited to effectively manage a severe airway obstruction in an infant.