What is the recommended action when dealing with a choking infant?

When dealing with a choking infant, the recommended action is to perform back blows and chest thrusts. This method is specifically designed to help dislodge any object that may be blocking the infant's airway. The process involves alternating between five firm back blows, delivered between the infant’s shoulder blades, and five chest thrusts, which are performed by placing two fingers in the center of the infant's chest and pushing inward and upward. This combination creates enough force to potentially dislodge the obstruction.

Coughing is a natural reflex that may help clear the airway in some cases, but when dealing with a choking infant, it is often ineffective, especially if the infant cannot breathe or cry. Giving water to a choking infant is not appropriate as it can exacerbate the choking by introducing more fluid into a blocked airway. Additionally, placing an infant in a recovery position is beneficial for other medical emergencies, but in the case of choking, immediate action is required to address the airway obstruction instead of waiting for the infant to stabilize.