In the Heimlich maneuver, where is the fist placed?

• A. On the sternum
• B. Just above the victim's navel
• C. In the armpit
• D. On the chest near the shoulder

Answer: (B)

For the Heimlich maneuver, you want to generate an upward, inward thrust in the upper abdomen to create pressure that can eject the obstructing item. The fist should be placed just above the victim’s navel, with the other hand resting on top, and you provide quick inward and upward thrusts. This position targets the abdominal area to build enough pressure to move air and dislodge the blockage. Placing the fist on the sternum would be chest compressions, not the abdominal thrust used for choking. The armpit area or near the shoulder doesn’t produce the correct direction or amount of force, so those locations aren’t appropriate. In situations where abdominal thrusts aren’t safe or effective (such as pregnancy or abdominal injuries), other techniques like back blows or chest thrusts are used.