What should you do first if you suspect a guest is choking?

The most appropriate initial action when you suspect a guest is choking is to ask them if they are choking. This approach is crucial for several reasons. First, it allows you to assess the situation and confirm whether the guest is indeed experiencing a choking incident. People may exhibit signs of distress for various reasons, so direct communication is essential to ensure you understand their condition accurately.

By asking if they are choking, you also provide an opportunity for the guest to express what they are feeling. This can help calm both you and the guest and allow them to communicate any symptoms they might be experiencing, such as being unable to breathe, cough, or speak. Additionally, this step can help determine how urgently you need to respond and whether they can still breathe or talk, which affects the subsequent responses you might need to take.

Taking this approach aligns with the best practices for handling potential choking situations, creating a space for the guest to clarify their needs while ensuring that you remain aware of the urgency of the situation. Thus, asking if they are choking not only assists in confirming the situation but also actively involves the guest in the management of their distress.