Which choking rescue works best? mannequin study puts devices to the test
NCT ID NCT06227234
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
This study tested how well everyday people can use three different choking rescue methods: abdominal thrusts (Heimlich maneuver), the LifeVac device, and the Dechoker device. 132 adults watched short training videos and then tried each technique on a choking mannequin. Researchers measured how quickly each method cleared the airway. The goal is to find out which technique works best for bystanders to use in a real choking emergency.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this study could help identify the most effective first-aid technique for choking, potentially saving lives.
- What could go wrong
- This was a simulation study on mannequins, not real choking emergencies. Results may not translate to real-life situations.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Phase
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Not a phased trial
Phase numbers describe drug development. The registry uses this when they do not apply, as it does for trials of devices, procedures or behaviour changes, and for observational studies.
- Participants
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132 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Aug 2024
- Finished
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Dec 2025
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
- Ages
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18 years and older
- Sex
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Anyone
- Healthy volunteers
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Accepted
You do not need to have the condition being studied to take part.
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Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: * All adult laypersons (Aged 18 years or older) * Able to communicate in English (to sign informed consent) * Non- Exclusion Criteria: * Physical disability limiting the performance/use of the interventions * Individuals with healthcare training (e.g., physicians, nurses, paramedics, respiratory therapists or associated students)
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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