LUCAS devices, a powerful new tool used by Central Arizona Fire and Medical Authority (CAFMA), offers mechanical chest compression, giving EMS an extra set of hands to conduct other pertinent, lifesaving actions. LUCAS devices also improve both the consistency and depth of compressions, leading to continuous blood flow through the body, and better patient outcomes. Since deploying the devices across the fire authority, there has been a 20% increase in Return of Spontaneous Circulation (ROSC), a critical milestone indicating the heart has restarted after cardiac arrest, CAFMA EMS Capt. Brett Poliakon said.
โThese are life-changing machines, game changers when it comes down to trying to save someoneโs life,โ he said. โItโs vastly important to keep blood flowing for continuous oxygen. As well, it allows EMS providers to do higher-end tasks now, like an extra set of hands.โ CAFMA EMS Chief Doug Niemynski also spoke highly of these devices: โThese devices do not replace our personnel โ they are here to strengthen what we do. They allow our firefighters to deliver uninterrupted CPR, especially in challenging environments like the back of a moving ambulance, where quality manual compressions can be difficult.โ
CAFMAโs EMS Division will evaluate outcomes and performance data to ensure continued effectiveness. Positive results though are already being seen โ one recent call highlights the deviceโs impact where a woman in her 70s went into sudden cardiac arrest. Firefighters quickly deployed the device on scene, delivering consistent, high-quality compressions. โThanks to rapid intervention and uninterrupted care, she is now making a full recoveryโ, said Kathy Goodman, community relations manager, public information officer.
