What technique can you use if a casualty is having difficulty breathing due to obstructions?

Using a nasopharyngeal airway is a critical technique for assisting a casualty who is experiencing difficulty breathing due to obstructions. This device is designed to maintain an open airway, particularly in situations where the tongue or other soft tissues may block the throat. The nasopharyngeal airway is inserted through the nose and advances into the pharynx, helping to ensure that air can flow unobstructed into the lungs.

This is particularly useful in unconscious or semi-conscious patients, where there may be a risk of airway collapse. The use of this airway adjunct is a foundational skill in emergency care, allowing first responders to provide immediate assistance while waiting for advanced medical help.

The other options, while they may be helpful in other contexts, do not directly address the issue of airway obstruction as effectively. For example, abdominal thrusts are used for choking situations where a foreign object is blocking the airway but may not be suitable for all forms of obstruction. Encouraging someone to drink water could lead to choking if they are having respiratory difficulties. Waiting for the person to calm down may neglect the immediate need for maintaining an open airway and could worsen the situation.