This automated chest compression device is saving lives in Central Florida – WSVN 7News

ORLANDO, Fla. (WESH) — It’s helping first responders save lives, and now more agencies are using it.

The LUCAS III device is an autonomous chest compression system.

Bob Eul had no idea what the machine was when he saw it, but it was partly what helped him survive the heart attack he suffered earlier this year.

“I don’t remember when I lost consciousness. I don’t even remember what happened after that, or when I woke up in the hospital a week later,” Eul said.

He was home when he began having a heart attack. Eul’s wife, Sharon, ran outside to get help. The only person nearby was their neighbor, Micah Arrington, who began aggressive CPR until paramedics arrived.

“I ran into the house and found Bob. He was lying on the floor, unconscious and purple,” Arrington said.

When paramedics arrived, Eul was connected to the LUCAS device.

“I was very curious to see what it was. I’d never seen anything like it,” Arrington said.

The device is the latest in a series of CPR technologies that have been evolving since 2003. While LUCAS performs chest compressions, rescuers can perform other types of life-saving activities.

This machine and others like it are becoming increasingly common in Central Florida. Rescuers can quickly attach the device to a patient and begin automated chest compressions in seconds.

“The depth has to be at least two inches and it always compresses to the same depth every time,” said Lt. Geoff Miller with the Kissimmee Fire Department.

Their department now has six LUCAS devices.

Each of Orange County Fire Rescue’s 56 fire stations is equipped with the device, and it has been used more than 150 times this year, officials said.

Other agencies, such as the Ocoee and Orlando fire departments, also use automated chest compression devices.

“It doesn’t get tired as long as the battery is good,” said Mike Stroh of the Oviedo Fire Department.

According to Stroh, effective CPR cannot be interrupted for more than 10 seconds, and these devices are very helpful in achieving this.

“When we transfer a patient to a stretcher, we typically are unable to perform effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation,” Stroh said.

On average, a LUCAS device costs about $20,000. Both Eul and the rescuers say the cost is worth it because it saves lives.

“I think it’s incredible. It’s a great machine. Everyone should have one in their garage,” Eul said.

He’s joking, but Eul is proof that the LUCAS device can save lives.