What is the primary purpose of performing abdominal thrusts?

The primary purpose of performing abdominal thrusts is to clear an obstructed airway. This technique, commonly known as the Heimlich maneuver, is used in emergency situations when a person is choking and unable to breathe due to a blockage in their airway. By delivering a series of quick and forceful thrusts inward and upward, abdominal thrusts create pressure that can expel the object obstructing the airway, allowing the person to breathe again.

Performing abdominal thrusts is crucial in situations where a foreign object, such as food or a small toy, lodges in the throat, causing a lack of oxygen. The emphasis on this technique highlights the importance of acting swiftly to prevent serious complications, including loss of consciousness or even death due to asphyxiation.

In contrast, inducing vomiting, administering CPR, or treating burns addresses different medical emergencies and are not applicable to situations involving airway obstruction. Each of those actions has its specific protocols and purposes within the field of emergency response but does not perform the function of clearing an obstructed airway.