What is the appropriate action to take if an older woman is choking and cannot make any sound?

Performing abdominal thrusts is the appropriate action because this maneuver is specifically designed to dislodge an object from the airway of a person who is choking, especially when they are unable to make any sound. In situations where someone is choking and cannot breathe or speak, it indicates that their airway is likely blocked. Abdominal thrusts, also known as the Heimlich maneuver, create an artificial cough by increasing pressure in the abdominal cavity, which can help expel the object causing the obstruction.

While back blows and calling for an ambulance are important in specific contexts, they are not the immediate response recommended in this scenario. Back blows may be suitable for certain situations but are often less effective than abdominal thrusts when it comes to a complete airway blockage, particularly in adults. Encouraging the person to cough is typically advised when they can still breathe or make sounds; however, in this case, since the woman cannot make any sound, she is unable to cough effectively to clear her airway. Calling for an ambulance is crucial if the situation worsens, but the priority in a choking emergency is to act immediately with abdominal thrusts to try to remove the obstruction before seeking additional help.