During an obstructed airway emergency, what action should an EMT take if the Heimlich maneuver is ineffective?

The correct action for an EMT to take if the Heimlich maneuver is ineffective is to consider advanced airway measures. When faced with a situation where traditional methods for clearing an obstructed airway, such as the Heimlich maneuver, fail to resolve the obstruction, advancing to more sophisticated measures becomes essential. This could involve techniques such as intubation or using a supraglottic airway device, which can provide a clear route for air to enter the lungs and help ventilate the patient.

By considering advanced airway measures, the EMT can manage the airway with greater precision and create an opportunity to provide supplemental oxygen, even if initial attempts to dislodge the obstruction were unsuccessful. It reflects a protocol-driven approach to ensuring the patient’s airway is secured and oxygenation is preserved, particularly in high-risk situations stemming from severe choking incidents.