HomeMy WebLinkAboutEFD LUCAS2 Save Life
Contact: Jordan Gilgenbach, Communications Coordinator
952-826-0396 • jgilgenbach@ci.edina.mn.us • www.CityofEdina.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New device at Edina Fire Department helps save lives
Edina, Minn., Oct. 5, 2011 – A recent donation to the Edina Fire Department has already
helped save a life.
The Edina Fire Department received a $14,000 LUCAS 2 device from Fairview Southdale
Hospital on Oct. 3. It was put into action a week later when a resident suffered a heart attack.
When paramedics arrived, LUCAS 2 was situated around the patient’s chest. Constant chest
compressions were given during transport to a hospital. The patient’s heartbeat was revived by
the time they arrived.
LUCAS 2 is an automated device designed to give consistent, uninterrupted chest compressions
to victims of cardiac arrest. While manual compressions often become less effective as time
passes, the LUCAS 2 device delivers 100 compressions per minute at a 1.5- to 2-inch depth in
accordance with American Heart Association guidelines.
“This is a very exciting gift,” said Edina Fire Chief Marty Scheerer. “We were ranked No. 1 in
cardiac arrest survival earlier this year. This device will ensure we stay at the top of survival
rates.”
Scheerer says where this is really useful is when transporting patients. When performing CPR
manually, compressions stop when going down stairs and through doorways. With the LUCAS
2 device, compressions can be delivered for more than 45 minutes when on the battery. The
device can also be plugged in to a wall or car outlet. The device also frees the hands of
paramedics, allowing them to provide other lifesaving treatments.
For more information, contact Scheerer at 952-826-0332.
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