In cases of an obstructed airway, which action is typically contraindicated?

In cases of an obstructed airway, administering artificial ventilation is typically contraindicated because the obstruction must be resolved before any form of ventilation can be effectively performed. If a person is unable to breathe due to an obstruction, attempting to ventilate them without first clearing the airway can lead to further complications. Artificial ventilation relies on an open airway; if the airway is blocked, air cannot be delivered to the lungs, and the risk of aspiration or worsening the obstruction increases significantly.

Encouraging coughing, performing abdominal thrusts, and using back blows are all methods aimed at clearing the airway obstruction by helping the patient expel the object causing the blockage. These interventions are generally recommended when a person is conscious and still able to cough effectively, allowing natural expulsion of the obstruction before resorting to more invasive measures.