Nursing Acceleration Challenge Exam (NACE) PN-RN Practice Test

During the Heimlich maneuver, where should the nurse place a grasped fist on an adult?

1. Above the umbilicus.

2. Below the umbilicus.

3. Over the epigastrium.

4. Over the sternum.

The correct answer is: Above the umbilicus.

In the Heimlich maneuver, the proper placement of the fist is crucial for effectively relieving choking in an adult. The correct technique involves placing the fist above the umbilicus, specifically in the upper abdomen, just below the rib cage. This positioning allows for the generation of upward pressure against the diaphragm, facilitating the expulsion of the obstructing object from the airway. When the fist is positioned above the umbilicus, the force applied can create a pressure that raises the diaphragm and forces air from the lungs, helping to dislodge the obstruction. It is important to execute this maneuver with the right technique to maximize effectiveness and minimize injury risk. Other options do not effectively target the diaphragm and could result in inadequate force to dislodge an object blocking the airway. Proper training and understanding of these dynamics are essential for anyone performing the Heimlich maneuver.