What should be performed on a pregnant woman who is unable to speak and appears to be choking?

In the scenario where a pregnant woman is choking and unable to speak, performing chest thrusts is the appropriate response. This technique is recommended because pregnant women have a developing fetus that may be at risk from the abdominal pressure applied during abdominal thrusts.

Chest thrusts are performed by placing your arms under the woman's armpits and using your hands to apply quick inward and upward thrusts to the sternum. This can help expel the object causing the obstruction without putting excessive pressure on the abdomen, thereby minimizing risk to both the mother and the fetus during a potentially life-threatening situation.

While abdominal thrusts might be suitable for someone who is not pregnant, their use on a pregnant woman could lead to injury or complications. Administering back blows would not be as effective in this situation and might also cause further distress. Calling for emergency help is essential, but in an immediate choking situation, providing some immediate care, such as chest thrusts, may be more crucial before emergency services arrive.