Gwinnett commissioners on Tuesday approved the purchase of 31 LUCAS devices, equipment that delivers consistent and uninterrupted chest compressions to patients experiencing sudden cardiac arrest emergencies. Medical professionals use the device when preforming CPR.
The American Heart Association recommends patients in cardiac arrest receive chest compressions at a rate of 100 to 120 times per minute at a depth of 2 to 2.4 inches, with as few pauses as possible.
Paramedics may find themselves in situations that interrupt chest compressions when a patient is being moved down a flight of stairs, while moving through narrow hallways or doorways, or when first responders are unable to access the patient’s side. The LUCAS device can provide uninterrupted care while paramedics get the patient to the ambulance or transport vehicle.
Fire Chief Casey Snyder said, “Use of the device will eliminate the need for extra resources to be deployed on cardiac related calls, freeing up emergency personnel for other responses.”
The devices from Physio-Control Inc. will cost $593,835 and include batteries, disposable supplies and maintenance.
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