What is the correct technique for administering abdominal thrusts?

The correct technique for administering abdominal thrusts is to wrap your arms around the person from behind and thrust upward just above the belly button. This method is effective because it allows you to generate sufficient force to help expel an obstruction from the airway by creating a quick pressure increase in the abdomen.

When the thrust is aimed just above the belly button, it focuses the force on the diaphragm, which is critical in forcing air out of the lungs and expelling the trapped object. Proper positioning is vital; being behind the person ensures that you have a stable base and can apply the necessary upward thrust effectively without risking injury to yourself or the victim.

Other techniques, such as pushing down on the abdomen from the front or holding the person's hands down while pushing on their chest, do not utilize the proper mechanics of abdominal thrusts and could lead to ineffective actions that don't properly clear the airway or may even cause harm.