New device for chest compression benefits Madison Hospital patients

Madison Hospital now has a LUCAS Chest Compression System. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – A new device used during CPR procedures, the LUCAS Chest Compression System, is helping first responders to assist patients at Madison Hospital.

The easy-to-use, lightweight LUCAS device provides effective, continuous external chest compressions during CPR. Rescuers, such as first responders, paramedics, physicians and nurses, can maintain vital blood circulation for patients who experience sudden cardiac arrest.

In addition, LUCAS can help adults with spontaneous breathing and pulse and loss of consciousness.

A donor to the Huntsville Hospital Foundation allowed the hospital to buy this equipment for use by emergency personnel, Pamela Sparks said. Sparks is manager of media and public relations for Huntsville Hospital.

Personnel can use LUCAS either in the hospital or remotely. In-hospital users include code response teams, critical care units, cardiac catheterization labs and other specialty areas. Learning to use the LUCAS system requires minimal training, Sparks said.

With its battery, backpack and accessories, the unit weighs 22.2 pounds. The device and battery alone weigh just 17.2 pounds.

If a patient is not breathing, the responder first applies manual compressions and then adjusts the LUCAS unit to fit the patient properly. Finally, the responder presses the button for LUCAS to start the compressions and applies a stabilization strap, Sparks said.

LUCAS provides 100 compressions per minute with a depth of 1.5 to 2 inches. This timing allows the chest wall to recoil fully after each compression.

“Studies have shown that, due to rescuer fatigue, chest compressions performed even by well-trained responders lose their effectiveness after the first minute,” Sparks said. “LUCAS is designed to provide effective, continuous compressions … that allow the rescuer to provide other lifesaving therapies including medication, defibrillation and ventilation.”

Performing manual chest compressions is very difficult, and quality varies between responders and deteriorates over time, Sparks said. “LUCAS is designed to overcome these problems.”

Madison Hospital’s address is 8375 U.S. 72 W. For more information, call 256-265-2012 or visit madisonalhospital.org.