Choking First Aid: Lifesaving Techniques for Adults and Pregnant Individuals. … Choking emergencies can happen to anyone, and knowing the correct response can save a life. … For adults, perform abdominal thrusts—stand behind the person, wrap your arms around their waist, and deliver quick, upward thrusts just above the navel. … For pregnant individuals or those with a larger body build, use chest thrusts instead. Stand behind them, place your hands on the center of their chest, and push inward a