For a choking adult who is conscious, what is the recommended first aid step?

For a conscious adult who is choking, performing abdominal thrusts is the recommended first aid step. Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, are effective in dislodging a foreign object that is obstructing the airway. This technique involves placing a fist above the person's navel and thrusting inward and upward, creating pressure in the abdomen that can force the object out of the airway.

While back blows can be helpful in some situations, they are usually more effective for children and infants. Encouraging a person to cough may be beneficial if they can cough forcefully, as this may help to clear the airway, but when a person is unable to breathe adequately, it is essential to take more direct action, such as abdominal thrusts. Offering water to drink is not advisable, as it can lead to further choking instead of alleviating the obstruction. Thus, abdominal thrusts are crucial for effectively removing the obstruction in a conscious adult.