In cases of severe choking, which step follows performing 5 back blows?

In situations of severe choking, after administering 5 back blows, the next step is to perform 5 abdominal thrusts. This is part of a sequence of maneuvers aimed at dislodging the object blocking the airway.

The back blows help provide a series of strikes to the back that can sometimes be effective in dislodging the obstruction. However, if the object remains lodged in the throat and the person is still choking, abdominal thrusts (also known as the Heimlich maneuver) are essential. They create high pressure in the abdominal area, which can force the object out of the airway more effectively.

This method is vital because it targets the diaphragm and creates a strong, sudden upward pressure that can successfully expel the object, allowing the airway to clear and restoring normal breathing. The other options, such as checking for breathing or calling for help, are important but applicable at different stages of responding to choking and do not follow back blows in the immediate sequence of addressing the obstruction.