Which of the following statements is true regarding choking?

The statement about never leaving a choking child unattended is crucial for ensuring the child's safety. When a child is choking, immediate assistance may be required to clear the airway. Leaving them alone could lead to increased risk of harm, as the situation can worsen rapidly. If another person is present, they can call for help or provide assistance if the situation escalates. Supervision is key in emergencies to provide a safety net and to react promptly.

In contrast, the other options would potentially increase the risk of choking or avoid addressing the seriousness of the situation. Shaking a child can cause further distress or injury. Encouraging a child to eat while laughing is dangerous, as it can lead to choking since laughing can make swallowing difficult. Lastly, instructing the child to lie down might obstruct the airway further and does not facilitate clearing an obstruction effectively. Thus, the importance of supervision in this situation makes the correct choice clearly focused on maintaining the child’s safety and ensuring that help is readily available.