Several suction-based airway clearance devices, sometimes referred to as anti-choking devices, are available in the UK.
RCUK has reviewed its position in light of the 2025 update to the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation (ILCOR) Consensus on Science with Treatment Recommendations and the European Resuscitation Council (ERC) 2025 First Aid Guidelines.
ILCOR noted that these devices are increasing in prevalence, that there are currently no treatment recommendations regarding their use, and that an updated systematic review is warranted.
On this basis, RCUK makes no recommendation for or against the use of suction-based airway clearance devices whilst awaiting the findings of an updated ILCOR systematic review. RCUK continues to emphasise that established choking treatments for adults and children should be prioritised, as these can be delivered immediately and form the basis of current resuscitation practice.
RCUK welcomes further high-quality research into the safety, effectiveness, harms, implementation and potential impact of these devices on the delivery of established choking treatment.
Recommendations for the management of choking
RCUK recommends:
- Encourage the conscious person to cough.
- If coughing becomes ineffective, give back blows and abdominal thrusts for adults and children, and chest thrusts for infants.
- If the person becomes unconscious, start CPR without delay.
- Do not perform blind finger sweeps. Remove an obstruction from the mouth only if it is clearly visible.
- Appropriately trained healthcare professionals may use advanced techniques, such as suction or laryngoscopy and forceps, to remove a foreign body airway obstruction where indicated.
These established treatments can be initiated promptly and do not require specialist equipment.
Review
This statement reflects the 2025 ILCOR Consensus on Science with Treatment Recommendations. RCUK will review its position following publication of any updated ILCOR systematic review.
Reviewed and updated July 2026
Reviewed and updated May 2024
Reviewed and updated July 2022
Reviewed and updated September 2021
Originally published Jan 2018
