What technique is essential for clearing a compromised airway in adults?

Abdominal thrusts are the appropriate technique for clearing a compromised airway in adults, particularly in cases of choking caused by an obstruction. This method involves delivering forceful, upward thrusts just above the navel to create enough pressure to expel the lodged object from the airway, thereby restoring normal breathing.

While suctioning is an effective method for clearing fluids or certain types of obstructions from the airway, it's mainly used in responsive or semi-responsive patients without a solid object lodged. Chest compressions are focused on circulatory support during cardiac arrest and are not used for removing airway obstructions. Back blows are generally utilized in infants or certain emergency situations but are not the primary method for adults with airway obstructions. Therefore, abdominal thrusts remain the most recognized and effective technique for managing a choking adult.