Anti-Choking Devices vs Do the 5 to stay alive.

Anti-Choking Devices vs Do the 5 to stay alive.

As a parent, it is very likely you will need to manage a choking incident.

It happens with no notice, is silent and is really frightening.

Many of my students have asked for my thoughts on anti choking devices, so I did a bit of research.

Video after video showed anti choking devices being used before first aid. (videos had to be staged as well!)

Having taught first aid for over 16 years, I know back blows are very effective. 

I can’t help but say that in the examples I have watched, I do believe back blows would have been effective had they been administered.

First Aid First! 

Do the 5 to stay alive! 5 back blows… Simple actions save lives.

There are steps to take before we run off looking for devices. 

My strongest recommendation is to give back blows & chest thrusts as your priority, and also teach your family members. 

Read our full blog on first line first aid treatment for choking.

If we are not dealing with a full obstruction, the Mothers Kiss is an excellent option for clearing objects out of littles one’s noses.

This one is a bit gross! We take a look at this a little further down.

First aid should always be your first line of treatment.

Why back blows before anti-choking devices?

  • You can start treatment immediately: All you need is first aid training
  • First Aid Works Well: Statistically, first aid back blows and chest thrusts are very effective
  • They're the fastest response: You can start managing the choking incident immediately. No waiting for a device. 
  • Can’t get Lost: To rely on family members locating the anti choking device and remembering how to use it in a very stressful moment is a gamble I am not willing to take. 

The Mothers Kiss:

Before we look at the ins and outs of some of these devices, let me share the “Mothers Kiss”. 

While this action is not for helping with a completely blocked airway, it may save you a long wait in the emergency room.

The "Mother's Kiss" is a simple technique for when your child puts things in their nose! 

Playdough, chewing gum, leggoes, and I have seen a piece of balloon go up the bat cave. 

This move works best on objects that are completely blocking  the nose but can help with partial blockages, depending on the item.

While it may not be appropriate to incorporate into childcare centres, I can tell you I have seen this work first hand, on more than one occasion.

Be prepared for lots of boogas!

5 Steps to give the Mothers Kiss

Step 1: Stay Calm and Comfort Your Child

Make sure you stay calm! Let your child know you have a special trick to get out whatever it is that they have decided to stash in their nose.

Provide lots of cuddles and reassurance to make sure they stay calm too.

Step 2: Position Your Child Correctly

Have your child sit upright, facing you. Ensure their head is tilted slightly backward.

Step 3: Close the Unaffected Nostril

Use your finger to gently close the nostril that doesn't have the foreign object lodged inside.

Step 4: Blow into Their Mouth

With your mouth, cover your  child's open mouth, and form a tight seal. Give a short, sharp breath into their mouth. The positive pressure created by your breath can see offending object come flying out with a good spray of boogas.

Step 5: Check for the Object

Check your child's nose to see if the object is gone. Repeat a few times if you need too. Make sure you head to the hospital if you are not sure, or the item has not come out.

What Exactly Are Anti-Choking Devices?

So now we are clear on what I think, back to devices! 

Here are some answers to your questions, so you can make the right choice for your family.

Anti-choking devices are designed to help remove an object blocking someone's airway. There are a couple of main types:

  • Manual Devices: These are handheld devices that use suction to dislodge the object. Two of the most well-known brands are LifeVac and Dechoker.
  • Suction Devices: These typically use a pump or syringe to create suction and remove the blockage.

Remember, these devices are new to market and heavily promoted.

We do not have a lot of data for verified success rates of these devices. 

More importantly, there is no data that I could find discussing cases of these devices being ineffective, or causing a delay in any type of treatment.

And data that does not support sales will likely be suppressed…

LifeVac vs. Dechoker: What's the Difference?

Two devices I found are  LifeVac and Dechoker.

Both popular manual anti-choking devices, but they have some key differences:

Both devices have been shown to be effective in removing airway obstructions, and both have their pros and cons. 

The best choice for your family will depend on factors like your budget, the ages of your children, and your personal preferences.

Feature

LifeVac

Dechoker

Mechanism

Creates a one-way valve to prevent air from pushing the object further down, then uses suction to pull it out.

Uses a syringe-like mechanism to create suction and dislodge the object.

Age Suitability

Available in different sizes for infants, children, and adults.

Also available in different sizes for various age groups.

Ease of Use

Generally considered very easy to use with minimal training.

May require a bit more practice to use effectively.

Price

Typically more expensive than Dechoker.

More budget-friendly option.

Should Anti-Choking Devices be in Schools and Daycares?

Choking is a significant cause of injury and death in young children, and it can happen anywhere, including schools and daycare centres. 

Investing in quality, practical first aid training should be the primary focus for the management of choking in early childhood centres. 

This being said, I do believe there is a place for these devices when first aid options are ineffective and the ambulance is not yet on site.

Having anti-choking devices readily available in these settings could make a huge difference in an emergency.

BUT! Staff members need to be confident in using these devices correctly. 

Having an additional strategy to manage a life threatening situation is not a bad thing.

Common Questions Parents Ask about anti-choking devices

We all have questions about these devices, these seem to be the questions you are asking most, so here are some answers for you.

  • Are they safe? Yes, both LifeVac and Dechoker have been tested and found to be safe for use in both children and adults. There is a likelihood of bruising and discomfort during and after use.
  • Are they effective? Yes. There have been numerous reported cases where these devices have successfully removed airway obstructions.  Studies have also shown high success rates in simulated choking scenarios.
  • Are they a replacement for first aid? NO NO NO NO NO! First aid training is still essential. Anti-choking devices are an additional tool, a backup plan for when traditional methods fail.

If you decide to buy a device as a back-up plan…

When choosing an anti-choking device, consider these factors:

  • Age and size of your children: Make sure you get the correct size device for each family member.
  • Where you'll keep it: Will it be in your home first aid kit, in the car, or at your child's daycare?
  • Your budget: LifeVac is generally more expensive than Dechoker.
  • Personal preferences: Read reviews and compare features to see which device best suits your needs.

Don’t Forget! Prevention Prevention Prevention! SSSS

Shapes-the shape of foods is vital-no round surfaces EVER! (At least under 5s)

Sitting- only serve food when your kids are sitting down. Running around greatly increases the likelihood of choking

Supervise -Make sure you can see your toddlers during meal times, and no food in the car! Choking is silent, and you may not be able to pull over.

Search-get on your hands and knees, and search every spot to see what you toddler can see. Anything that can fit through a toilet roll is a choking hazard.

Choking is a common situation for parents and carers to deal with.  Learning first aid is essential, and adding an anti-choking device to your safety toolkit can provide an extra layer of protection. 

These devices are simple to use, safe, and they have proven to be effective in real-life emergencies. 

Hopefully after reading this, you can make an informed decision. 

Remember, prevention is always better than cure.

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