During emergency care, the primary purpose of performing the Heimlich maneuver is to:

• A. propel an obstruction out of the victim's airway using pressurized air from the diaphragm
• B. restart circulation of oxygenated blood to the victim's heart, brain, and other vital organs.
• C. force air from the victim's lungs into blocked pulmonary arteries in order to restore breathing.
• D. open the victim's airway so that the rescuer can finger-sweep an obstruction out of the victim's mouth.

Answer: (D)

The main idea behind the Heimlich maneuver is to create a quick, strong push of air to expel a blockage from the airway. Abdominal thrusts raise the pressure inside the chest, and that surge of air is what can force the obstructing object out of the trachea, restoring the ability to breathe. It’s about clearing the airway, not restarting circulation or moving air into the lungs or bloodstream. You only consider sweeping the mouth if you can clearly see and safely remove the object; otherwise use the abdominal thrusts to dislodge the obstruction.