In medical emergencies, every second matters. When cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) is needed, those chest compressions can make the difference between life and death.
Members of the Lewiston Fire Department understand how critical every second is in an emergency. That’s why they do everything they can to stay on top of their game and utilize state-of-the-art technology, like mechanical CPR devices.
“We received a grant to purchase three resuscitation systems that provide high-quality automated CPR to patients suffering from a sudden cardiac arrest,” Deputy Fire Chief Gaylon Waits said. “They’ve been in service for six weeks and we've used them on at least two calls so far."
The mechanical CPR devices are made for situations when resuscitation is needed on the move. For example, this equipment allows rescuers to provide uninterrupted CPR down steep stairwells, around sharp corners, or even in a cramped elevator. Compared with manual CPR, this device has been shown to reduce interruptions in compressions during transport by more than 85%.
“Manual CPR remains an important skill that all of our crews will continue to practice and utilize when necessary,” Waits said. “This technology is just another tool in our toolbox that will help us continue providing quality lifesaving services to members in our community.”
Learn more about how the devices are used by watching this educational video.