Staying Alive CPR LLC

I often get asked if a LifeVac(dechoking device) should be used when someone is choking. My answer has always been to first go by the gold standard and follow the guidelines set by the American Heart Association to give abdominal thrusts for those over 1 year of age or to give back slaps/chest thrusts to those under 1 year of age. If you are not able to get the item out and the person goes unresponsive you should begin CPR. If someone else is available, at this point they could try to use the de-choking device. Do not delay care to use these devices.

"Established choking rescue protocols, such as the American Red Cross and the American Heart Association, have a high success rate. Anti-choking devices typically require removal from packaging and assembly and could delay using established rescue protocols."

https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/safety-communications/fda-encourages-public-follow-established-choking-rescue-protocols-fda-safety-communication?fbclid=IwY2xjawE5WplleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHc85CjAicB65nam6yTSKaL6b_aJBX0ZXFWleXpU8KvQeJ1C9pnMfyFktHw_aem_qvm_OH3xZXDTxVQwk5fCAg

FDA Encourages Public to Follow Established Choking Rescue Protocols These choking rescue protocols include abdominal thrusts (also called the “Heimlich” maneuver) for children and adults but not anti-choking devices.

Have a Scout troop and want them to learn CPR skills? I taught my son's Bears den how to perform CPR and how to use an AED. It was a fun time with six 8-9 year olds!