The heart, blood and blood vessels work together to service the cells of the body. Using the network of arteries, veins and capillaries, blood carries carbon dioxide to the lungs (for exhalation) and picks up oxygen. From the small intestine, the blood gathers food nutrients and delivers them to every cell.

A5-year-old boy suddenly begins coughing while eating peanuts. he is choking and gagging. when he is brought to the ed, but he is awake and is able to give his name. on physical examination, his vital signs are stable. on examination of the chest, inspiratory stridor and intercostal and suprasternal retractions are apparent. which of the following is the most appropriate initial step in management? - allow patient to clear foreign object by spontaneous coughing- clear oropharynx with multiple blind sweeps with finger- position patient and perform back blows- stand behind patient and perform abdominal thrusts- perform emergency tracheostomy and take to surgery