A visitor is choking and making a high-pitched noise. What should you encourage them to do?

When a person is choking and can make a high-pitched noise, it indicates that they are still able to breathe partially and may be able to expel the obstructing object by coughing. Encouraging the individual to continue coughing is crucial, as effective coughing can help dislodge the obstruction from their airway.

Coughing increases the pressure in the airway, which can help push out the item causing the blockage. It also indicates that they might still have some airflow, which means they do not yet need more invasive measures like back slaps or abdominal thrusts. These actions are typically reserved for situations where the person cannot breathe, speak, or cough at all, as indicated by a lack of sound or a high-pitched wheezing noise.

While calling for help is important in emergency situations, in this case, supporting the person's ability to cough effectively is the immediate priority. Encouraging coughing can often lead to the resolution of the choking situation without the need for further intervention.