Is it acceptable to leave a person who is choking after encouraging them to continue coughing?

When a person is choking, it is critical to ensure their safety and well-being throughout the incident. Encouraging someone to cough can help to dislodge an object from their airway, but it is essential to remain with them until they are no longer in distress or their breathing has normalized. If a person is actively choking, they may require additional assistance such as the Heimlich maneuver or other first aid interventions. Leaving them alone can lead to a worsening of the situation, potentially resulting in loss of consciousness or a complete airway obstruction.

Continuous supervision allows the responder to monitor the choking individual and be ready to assist if their condition changes. This approach promotes the highest level of safety, ensuring that help is provided if needed. It is essential to recognize that a person who is choking and still coughing is generally able to breathe, but they may need reassurance and support until the emergency resolves.