What should you do if a conscious adult is choking, but can still speak?

If a conscious adult is choking but can still speak, the appropriate action is to encourage them to cough. This response is crucial because if a person is able to speak, it indicates that they have some airflow and are still capable of clearing the obstruction themselves. Coughing is a natural reflex that helps expel the object causing the choking.

Encouraging the person to cough not only allows them to attempt to dislodge the object on their own, but it also keeps them calm and focused. Abdominal thrusts, while effective for severe choking situations where the person cannot speak or breathe, are not indicated here since the individual still has some ability to breathe and communicate. Giving water to drink or placing them in a recovery position would not address the choking hazard and could potentially worsen the situation. Therefore, supporting the person in utilizing their own coughing mechanism is the most appropriate and effective response.