Mechanical CPR machines could be gamechanger in saving lives
Submitted by City of Carmel
Marking a significant advancement in emergency response with potential for improved patient outcomes, all five Carmel Fire Department (CFD) ambulances in service are now equipped with LUCAS mechanical CPR devices.
The automated chest compression systems provide consistent, hands-free cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), enhancing both patient care and firefighter safety during cardiac emergencies.
Benefits of the LUCAS Device
- Improved personnel efficiency: Frees up firefighters and paramedics to perform other life-saving tasks or manage the emergency scene
- Consistent compression quality: Delivers high-quality, fatigue-free chest compressions
- Enhanced clinical oversight: Supports quality assurance and performance review during cardiac arrest responses
- Crew safety and wellness: Reduces physical strain, enabling better decision-making under pressure
- Safer ambulance transport: Increases safety for providers during patient transport
- Continuous care: Minimizes interruption of compressions during movement (e.g., stairways, confined spaces)
- Potential for improved patient outcomes: May contribute to increased cardiac arrest survival rates
CFD began a six-month trial of the LUCAS device in November 2023. During the evaluation period, the device quickly proved to be a valuable asset during cardiac arrest responses, demonstrating both operational and clinical benefits.
Following the successful trial, and with the support of Mayor Sue Finkam and the Carmel City Council, CFD secured funding to expand the program. Their leadership and commitment to public safety enabled the department to purchase four additional LUCAS devices, ensuring this critical tool is available on every frontline ambulance.
Thacker
“The City of Carmel and the Carmel Fire Department are committed to setting a high standard for emergency response,” Chief Joel Thacker said. “Our dedication to implementing innovative tools like the LUCAS device reflects a strong focus on patient care, firefighter safety, and operational excellence. This level of leadership and dedication strengthens the resilience of our community in ways that our citizens both expect and rightfully deserve.”
Additionally, thanks to the generous support of the Hamilton County Health Department, CFD was able to purchase its first LUCAS unit following the trial. The department was also permitted to retain the demo unit, allowing two devices to remain in service during the transition period.
Finkam
“This is about saving lives and protecting those who save them,” Mayor Finkam said. “By investing in the LUCAS devices, our crews are better able to deliver consistent, high-quality CPR, reduce physical exertion and improve outcomes for cardiac arrest patients. I hope the community is proud of this innovation because with around 83 cardiac arrests occurring each year, it’s a tremendous investment in Carmel’s future.”