If an object is visible in the unconscious patient's airway, you should:

• A. continue chest compressions
• B. leave it in place
• C. remove it
• D. place the patient on his or her side

Answer: (B)

The important idea here is that during CPR for an unconscious patient, keeping the blood flowing and oxygen getting to the brain takes priority over trying to clear a foreign body. If you can see an object in the airway, the safest move is to leave it in place and continue high-quality chest compressions with rescue breaths, while you call for help and arrange advanced airway management or suction. Attempting to remove the object could take time, delay compressions, or risk pushing the object deeper or causing trauma. Placing the patient on the side doesn’t resolve an airway obstruction during CPR, and simply keeping compressions going without addressing the visible obstacle isn’t the recommended immediate action. Focus on uninterrupted CPR and getting professional airway clearance as soon as possible.