What should you do if a patient with a complete airway obstruction becomes unconscious?

When a patient with a complete airway obstruction becomes unconscious, starting chest compressions is critical because the airway is obstructed, preventing any air from reaching the lungs. In this situation, the priority is to ensure the patient has a pulse and is receiving some form of circulation, as unconsciousness can lead to cardiac arrest.

Chest compressions help maintain blood flow to vital organs, including the brain and heart, until the airway can be cleared or advanced interventions can be performed. In cases of complete obstruction where the individual is unresponsive, it is essential to provide basic life support protocols, which include chest compressions as a way to buy time for airway clearance and more advanced interventions, like back blows or the use of a suction device.

Rescue breaths are not appropriate because there is no airflow due to the obstruction. Similarly, applying high flow oxygen is ineffective if the airway is blocked, as the oxygen cannot enter the lungs. While abdominal thrusts might be considered in a responsive patient, they are not indicated in an unconscious patient, as they could cause further complications. Thus, initiating chest compressions is the most appropriate and life-saving action in this situation.