Effectiveness of Dispatcher-Guided Simulation Training on Lay Responder Performance in Managing Foreign Body Airway Obstruction
Chaiyawut Channonsaeng, BSc¹, Sarinya Oonpotha, BSc², Waraporn Panomwongkasem, BSc³, Chayanit Kaewsut, BSc⁴, Chattarin Sriphol, MSc⁵, Souksathaphone Chanthamath, MD⁶, Nantawan Tippayanate, PhD⁵
Affiliation : ¹ Takecare International Clinic, Aonang, Krabi, Thailand; ² Emergency Department, Phanatnikhom Hospital, Chonburi, Thailand; ³ Emergency Department, Bangplee Hospital, Samutprakan, Thailand; ⁴ Emergency Department, Prasat Hospital, Surin, Thailand; ⁵ Faculty of Medicine, Mahasarakham University, Mahasarakham, Thailand; ⁶ Department of Khammouane Provincial Health Office, Xai Bua Thong District Hospital, Khammouane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic
Abstract
Background: Foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO) is a life-threatening emergency in which early bystander intervention is critical. However, gaps in practical skills and confidence among lay responders remain a major challenge. Simulation-based training combined with dispatcher guidance may improve first-aid performance in community settings.
Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of dispatcher-guided simulation training in improving lay responder performance for managing FBAO.
Materials and Methods: A quasi-experimental, single-arm simulation study was conducted among 30 adult community volunteers with no prior Heimlich maneuver training. Participants managed a simulated choking scenario using an Act+Fast Anti-Choking Trainer while receiving real-time telephone guidance based on the National Institute for Emergency Medicine (NIEMS) protocols. Performance was assessed using predefined critical procedural steps.
Results: Participants who correctly followed key procedural steps—particularly appropriate hand positioning and forceful upward thrusts—demonstrated significantly higher success rates in relieving airway obstruction (p<0.05). The training approach also enhanced participant confidence, although challenges related to communication clarity and procedural understanding were observed.
Conclusion: Dispatcher-guided simulation training improved lay responder performance in managing FBAO in a controlled setting. This approach may serve as a scalable educational strategy to enhance community preparedness for choking emergencies. Further studies with controlled designs and real-world settings are needed to confirm these findings.
Received 28 April 2025 | Revised 8 May 2026 | Accepted 14 May 2026
J Med Assoc Thai 2026;109(8):647-53
Keywords : Foreign body airway obstruction; Dispatcher guidance; Simulation training; Lay responders; Emergency education; Heimlich maneuver
All Articles
Download
