NCLEX RN Practice Questions Exam Cram Related

Review NCLEX RN Practice Questions Exam Cram related questions and content

While eating in the hospital cafeteria, a nurse notices a toddler at a nearby table choking on a piece of food and appearing slightly blue. What is the appropriate initial action to take?

  • A. Begin mouth-to-mouth resuscitation
  • B. Give the child water to help with swallowing
  • C. Perform 5 abdominal thrusts
  • D. Call for the emergency response team
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a toddler is choking on a piece of food and appears blue, it indicates airway obstruction. The appropriate initial action should be to perform 5 abdominal thrusts. This technique can help dislodge the obstructing object and clear the airway. Initiating mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is not recommended as the first step in a choking emergency, especially in children. Giving water may not be effective and can worsen the situation by causing further blockage. Calling the emergency response team should be considered if the abdominal thrusts are unsuccessful in clearing the airway.