In the event of choking in an adult, it is advised to:

The Heimlich maneuver, also known as abdominal thrusts, is the recommended action when an adult is choking. This technique is specifically designed to dislodge an object that may be obstructing the airway. When performed correctly, the Heimlich maneuver creates a burst of air pressure from the lungs that can effectively expel the foreign object, restoring normal breathing.

Coughing forcefully is certainly a natural response and can sometimes help dislodge minor obstructions, but it may not always be effective for severe choking situations where the airway is significantly blocked. Giving water to drink is not advisable, as this could potentially worsen the obstruction or cause the person to aspirate. Waiting for medical assistance is not practical in an emergency; immediate action is often necessary to prevent further complications, including loss of consciousness.

Thus, performing the Heimlich maneuver is critical in an emergency choking situation to ensure the individual can breathe again as quickly as possible.