If a resident clutches their throat and coughs silently, what should the CNA do first?

In this situation, the correct action is to ask if the resident is choking. This step is important because it helps to assess the resident’s condition and confirm whether they are indeed experiencing a choking episode. Asking the resident communicates to them that help is on the way and provides them an opportunity to respond, which could be crucial in determining the next steps. If they can nod or gesture, this indicates they are aware of their situation, and if they can speak, it could suggest that they are not fully obstructed.

It's essential to approach situations involving choking with caution. If you were to call for emergency services or begin a maneuver without first confirming the situation, you might either waste critical time or skip essential interventions. For instance, starting the Heimlich maneuver without verification could cause harm or escalate the situation if the resident is not actually choking but simply having a different medical issue. Similarly, beginning CPR is not appropriate unless the individual has lost consciousness and is not breathing, which should only be assessed subsequent to confirming choking. These steps emphasize the importance of clear communication and assessment in emergency care.