What should be done if the patient's airway is occluded?

When a patient's airway is occluded, the most appropriate initial response is to perform chest thrusts. This technique is particularly effective in cases where the patient is conscious and experiencing severe airway obstruction. Chest thrusts create increased pressure within the thoracic cavity, helping to expel the object blocking the airway similarly to how abdominal thrusts work, but they can be safer for certain groups, such as those who are pregnant or obese.

Performing chest thrusts also allows the provider to maintain control of the situation while still being able to monitor the patient's responsiveness. It is essential to act quickly to relieve the obstruction, as prolonged airway blockage can lead to serious complications, including loss of consciousness.

The other options, although helpful in certain contexts, do not address the immediate need for removing the obstruction. The Heimlich maneuver could also be appropriate, but chest thrusts are preferred in specific situations where they are safer. Administering supplemental oxygen does not resolve the obstruction and would be inappropriate in an acute airway emergency. Inserting an oral airway might be useful in some cases, but it should not be the first action taken when an airway is obstructed by a foreign body.