What is the immediate action for a choking patient who is able to cough?

Encouraging continued coughing is the appropriate immediate action for a choking patient who is able to cough. When a person is able to cough effectively, it indicates that their airway is at least partially obstructed but still open enough for airflow. Coughing can help expel the object causing the obstruction, providing the patient with a chance to clear their airway on their own.

It is important to recognize that coughing is a natural reflex that can help dislodge foreign objects, so instead of intervening with more aggressive techniques, such as back blows or abdominal thrusts, it is best to allow the patient to use their coughing ability to resolve the situation. While calling for emergency assistance is crucial for severe cases or if the obstruction is not resolved, in this scenario where the patient can still cough, it is not the immediate priority.