To effectively perform the Heimlich maneuver, you must apply pressure in which area of the body?

The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is specifically designed to help a person who is choking by expelling an object lodged in the airway. To perform it effectively, the proper technique involves standing behind the individual and placing your arms around their waist. The next step is to make a fist with one hand, positioning it just above the person's navel, and then grasping this fist with your other hand.

Applying pressure to the abdomen is key because it generates a strong upward thrust that can create enough force to dislodge the obstruction from the airway. This upward movement is intended to push air from the lungs against the object, allowing it to be expelled. Hence, targeting the abdomen is critical for the maneuver's success, making this area the correct choice for effective performance of the procedure. Understanding this method is vital in emergency situations, as it can save lives by restoring normal breathing quickly.