A practical evaluation of four human-powered portable airway aspirators.

The establishment of a clear airway is a vital part of basic life support and mechanical devices are available to assist the clearance of the upper airway during resuscitation. The performances of four human-powered devices, currently available in the United Kingdom, were compared with the relevant British Standard. The ease of use of the devices by 20 experienced and 20 novice resuscitators was assessed. Three of the four devices met all British Standard criteria tested whereas the fourth failed on one test only. These devices are generally simple to use. However, two devices ('Res-Q-Vac' and 'Ambu Maxi Suction Pump') were more user friendly. The incidence of airway contamination during resuscitation and the current recommended resuscitation protocols suggest that there is a need for increased emphasis on these airway adjuncts in life-support training. Wider access to basic life support equipment inside and outside hospital premises may improve resuscitation outcome.