During resuscitation, if the airway is obstructed in a patient, what should be the next step?

In the context of pediatric resuscitation, if the airway is obstructed, the immediate and urgent response should be to attempt to remove the obstruction. This is critical because an unprotected airway can lead to insufficient oxygen delivery to the lungs and vital organs, which can result in severe complications or even death.

When an airway obstruction is suspected or confirmed in a patient who is unresponsive, the rescuer must prioritize clearing the obstruction immediately. This typically involves performing techniques such as back blows, abdominal thrusts, or direct airway maneuvers designed for infants and children, depending on their age and size.

While options like intubation and using a laryngeal mask airway are part of advanced airway management techniques, they are not the first step in the presence of a known obstruction. Continuing CPR without addressing the obstruction would also be inappropriate, as effective chest compressions cannot maintain circulation if the airway remains blocked. Clearing the obstruction is paramount to restoring airflow and enabling effective oxygenation.