How should you assist a victim who has been exposed to a choking agent?

When assisting a victim who has been exposed to a choking agent, the priority is to create a stable and supportive environment for the individual. Loosening clothing allows for better airflow and comfort, which is essential for someone suffering from the effects of a choking agent. Keeping the victim warm is also important, as exposure to chemical agents can lead to shock or other physiological stress responses.

The other options, while they may seem beneficial in different contexts, are not appropriate for a victim of a choking agent. For instance, giving water can be dangerous, especially if the airway is compromised. Performing abdominal thrusts is generally aimed at expelling an obstruction in cases of choking food, rather than addressing the effects of a choking agent, which may require a different course of action, such as decontamination or medical intervention. Applying cold compresses may not provide the necessary care required for chemical exposure and could complicate matters further.

Thus, loosening clothing and keeping the victim warm is the most suitable approach when dealing with someone affected by a choking agent, as it addresses their immediate needs for comfort and breathability.