Where should the fist be placed for abdominal thrusts?

Where should the fist be placed for abdominal thrusts?

• A. Against the chest
• B. Against the abdomen just above the navel, with the thumb side
• C. Below the navel
• D. Against the spine

Answer: (B)

The fist should be placed against the abdomen just above the navel, with the thumb side of the fist facing inward. This position lets you deliver quick, upward and inward thrusts that dramatically increase pressure inside the chest, helping to push air out and expel the obstruction. Placing the fist higher on the chest or lower on the abdomen would not generate the same expulsive force and could cause injury to the abdomen or chest; pressing against the spine is dangerous and ineffective. The thumb-side orientation helps you direct the thrust properly and protect surrounding structures while you use the other hand to stabilize and apply leverage.

The fist should be placed against the abdomen just above the navel, with the thumb side of the fist facing inward. This position lets you deliver quick, upward and inward thrusts that dramatically increase pressure inside the chest, helping to push air out and expel the obstruction. Placing the fist higher on the chest or lower on the abdomen would not generate the same expulsive force and could cause injury to the abdomen or chest; pressing against the spine is dangerous and ineffective. The thumb-side orientation helps you direct the thrust properly and protect surrounding structures while you use the other hand to stabilize and apply leverage.