I'm not sure there is anything more terrifying than watching your child choke. The seconds seem like hours as you are racing to dislodge the obstruction. What if the choking maneuver that you learned in CPR class isn't working? What if EMS is still 7 minutes away?
While there is nothing more effective for choking than abdominal thrusts for adults and children and black slaps with chest thrusts for infants, there is now a back-up plan called the LifeVac.
The LifeVac is a non-powered single patient portable suction device developed for resuscitating an aspirating vic
tim when the standard protocol has been followed without success.
How does it work?
When you place LifeVac over the mouth and nose, it creates a seal. The one-way valve then prevents air from moving food downwards when pressed. Then you can pull to create a one-way suction to remove the lodged food or object in a second.
Is the LifeVac device safe to use for anyone?
Almost. The device offers both a child-size and an adult-size mask for consumers to use. However, the force can be too strong for children under 22 lbs. Still, this device even works for individuals that are wheelchair users, illnesses, disorders, or other health-related conditions. You can even use it yourself.
Is LifeVac FDA Approved?
LifeVac is FDA registered as a Class II medical device. It is exempt from pre-market clearance. The FDA does not require a pre-market review of the LifeVac device.
Again, the best way to help a choking victim is by using standard choking protocols. Choking is covered in ALL of the courses that we offer. Please contact us to schedule a class.