EYI Regulatory notice 03/2026 
Background
Anti-choking devices (also known as choking- rescue devices) are suction-based airway clearance devices marketed for the treatment of choking and are available in Ireland for purchase and distribution.
The Early Years Inspectorate are aware of the presence of anti-choking devices in early years services. However, the HSE, the Emergency Medicine Programme/Irish Association of Emergency Medicine and the Resuscitation Council in the UK do not currently support their use as a response to a choking incident, due to the lack of research on the safety or effectiveness of these devices. These agencies have further shared their concerns that the use of these devices could actually delay established treatments for choking.
In correspondence with the Inspectorate, PHECC have advised that they support the guidance provided by the HSE, EMP & IAEM as outlined. The FAR training syllabus does not refer to these devices, and their use is not currently endorsed by PHECC or included in their clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) as practice is based on international guidelines on resuscitation. The most recentguidelines released in October 2025 did not change this position.
All the literature and statements that the Inspectorate have reviewed agree that these devices should not replace the established interventions (abdominal thrusts and back blows) for a choking incident.
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