(Waupun) Dodge County Public Health has donated an automated CPR device to SSM Health’s Waupun Memorial Hospital. The battery-powered device, a LUCAS 3, performs automated chest compressions during cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
The LUCAS 3 chest compression system provides additional benefits to cardiac arrest patients by delivering guideline-consistent, high-quality chest compressions even under difficult conditions and for extended periods of time. Studies demonstrate the LUCAS device improves quality of chest compressions, increases carbon dioxide monitoring levels, and sustains lifesaving blood circulation during prolonged resuscitation attempts.
Waupun Hospital Emergency Room Manager Emily Kosterman says the devices can free up personnel to let them focus on other critical emergency patient care, such as defibrillation, intubation, and IV placement.
This new technology has been made possible by the Dodge County Public Health team as part of a state public health grant funding tied to the COVID pandemic. Waupun Memorial Hospital is one of three area hospitals to receive a LUCAS 3 chest compression system. Waupun Memorial Hospital Emergency Room’s previous LUCAS system is now available within the hospital’s inpatient nursing unit.
Dodge County Emergency Preparedness Coordinator Matt Bartol says the closeness of patients during CPR increases the danger of aerosol spread of virus . He adds that having the ability to stand aside and not be directly exposed while performing chest compressions greatly reduces the chance of infection.
Kosterman adds that they greatly appreciate Dodge County Public Health’s donation and having an updated device will assist staff and improve patient outcomes.
Photo caption: SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital’s Emergency Room now has a new LUCAS 3 chest compression system thanks to the Dodge County Public Health team. Among staff who is utilizing the new equipment are (left to right) Alexx Mitchell, clinical partner, Lauren Winchell, RN, Olivia Ambrose, RN, and Devan Nehls, RN.
