Grant funds CPR Machine

The Sudbury Fire Department recently used a grant from the Sudbury Foundation to purchase a Lucas Chest Compression System, a machine that provides automatic Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) to patients.

The unit is an electrically-powered piston device that provides accurately timed chest compressions at a precise depth. First responders performing manual chest compressions cannot match the efficiency of the machine, especially when a patient is being carried through doorways, down stairs or over difficult terrain.

In recent years, the American Heart Association has placed greater emphasis on chest compressions over ventilations.

The new machine compliments the department's new in-house Advanced Life Support system which became active on November 1.

Sudbury EMTs and paramedics carry the basic certification to operate the device. They recently received additional training from the manufacturer, Physio Control, so that the life-saving machine may now be used in Sudbury.