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It’s not just children and the elderly at risk
Adults with often a complex need such as epilepsy, autism or with a learning disability can leave them prone to choking.
A trauma, accident or an Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) can leave an adult facing difficulty with chewing, drinking and swallowing which increases their risk of a Foreign Body Airway Obstruction or FBAO
Cramming, Pica, Dysphagia and talking with a mouth full of food and limited insight are all will all add up to an increased risk of choking.
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Managing the unique challenges
There is a tendency to focus on the prevention of choking, and is something that we promote with our #chokeaware programme.
The response to a choking emergency is, sadly, something often overlooked – until it is too late.
Delivering choking First Aid on a wheelchair user, or a person lying down is a challenging one – particularly as there is no guidance on how to do it.
A person with a learning or cognitive impairment may not recognise attempts to help. Refusal or resistance can lead to a delay in receiving time critical treatment.
Dechoker – Adult
The Adult Dechoker is fitted with a standard size adult mask – the same as those found on Ambu Bags and resuscitation kits.
There are two smaller versions available for those adults whose particular requirements may find a smaller mask better suited.
If you feel this might be necessary please get in touch and talk to one of the team.
