How to Use a LifeVac

The LifeVac is an emergency device designed to provide a rapid method for clearing an obstructed airway when traditional first aid techniques are insufficient or impractical. Its operation relies on a simple push-and-pull mechanism to create suction.

Using a LifeVac involves a series of quick, critical steps to dislodge a foreign object from a choking victim's airway. It's vital to act quickly and decisively in such emergency situations.

Detailed Steps for LifeVac Application

1. Confirm Choking:

   • First, confirm that the person is truly choking and unable to breathe, cough, or speak. If they can cough forcefully, encourage them to continue.
   • If they are unconscious, unable to cough, or traditional abdominal thrusts have failed, prepare the LifeVac.

2. Position the Victim:

   • For an unconscious victim, lay them flat on their back on a firm surface, ensuring their head is slightly tilted back to help open the airway.
   • For a conscious victim, they can remain seated or standing, though laying them down may be preferred if possible.

3. Assemble and Position the Mask:

   • Select the correct size mask (adult or pediatric) for the individual and firmly attach it to the LifeVac device.
   • Place the mask completely over the victim's mouth and nose, ensuring a tight, airtight seal around their face. A proper seal is crucial for the device to work effectively.

4. Activate the Device to Clear the Airway:

   • While maintaining the tight seal of the mask against the victim's face, firmly and quickly push down on the handle of the LifeVac device. This action expels air from the bellows, preparing the suction.
   • Immediately following the push, swiftly "And pull" the handle straight up and away from the victim's face with a decisive, single motion. This rapid retraction generates strong negative pressure (suction), which aims to dislodge the obstruction.
   • If successful, "out comes the obstruction out of the airway," as demonstrated in training.

5. Check and Repeat (If Necessary):

   • After the pull, quickly check the victim's mouth to see if the obstruction is visible. If it is, carefully remove it with a finger sweep only if it's easily accessible.
   • If the obstruction is not cleared and the person is still choking, reposition the mask to ensure a good seal and repeat the "push and pull" action.

Key Advantages and Situational Use Cases of LifeVac

The LifeVac serves as a critical alternative or supplement to standard choking protocols, particularly in situations where traditional methods might be challenging or ineffective. As highlighted in training, "in certain instances, the abdominal thrust may be difficult to do such as a person in a wheelchair."

Other scenarios where LifeVac provides a vital solution include:

• Individuals with Mobility Limitations: Effective for people who cannot be easily repositioned for abdominal thrusts, such as those in wheelchairs or beds.
• Pregnant Women: It offers an alternative when abdominal thrusts are contraindicated.
• Obese Individuals: Can be more effective than manual thrusts on individuals where a proper grip for abdominal thrusts is difficult to achieve.
• Unconscious Victims: LifeVac can be used effectively on unconscious individuals where traditional methods become less efficient.
• Elderly or Frail Individuals: Offers a less invasive alternative compared to forceful abdominal thrusts, reducing the risk of injury.

Summary of LifeVac Usage Steps

It is crucial to remember that LifeVac is an emergency device for use in life-threatening choking situations. While intuitive to use, familiarization with the device through training is highly recommended.