Posted on 10/26/2010

THOMASVILLE, GA-- Thomas County Emergency Medical Service Co-Director Tim Coram reported to the Board of Commissioners today, Oct 26, that due to the use of new equipment, cardiac arrest survival rates in Thomas County have increased significantly. The new equipment, known as a “Lucas 2 Device” was put into use in April 2010. At that time, Lucas devices were placed in all 5 front line ambulances operated by Thomas County. In 2009, Thomas County EMS transported 37 cardiac arrest patients with a survival rate of 18.9%. So far, in 2010 with the Lucas device in service, EMS transported 44 cardiac arrest patients with a survival rate of 32.0%. Captain Coram stated, “When the proposal to purchase the Lucas devices was made to the Board of Commissioners, we told you it would save more lives and that prediction has proven true.”

Thomas County EMS is the only ambulance service in Georgia with Lucas 2 devices on all front line ambulances. The Lucas 2 device is an automated chest compression device that is designed for use on patients suffering cardiac arrest. The device delivers a consistent rate and force of compressions when administering cardiac pulmonary resuscitation (CPR) procedures to patients. All the work is done by the Lucas 2 device freeing up the paramedic to administer other medical procedures. Captain Coram further reported, “Our staff, from emergency first responders to paramedics, have received thorough training on the use and operation of the device and we are fully prepared to rapidly integrate the device into standard basic and advanced life support procedures.”

The Thomas County Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of 5 Lucas 2 Devices in the 2010 budget at a total cost of $66,803 Referring to the new device Board Chairman Mary Jo Beverly stated, “With the use of modern technology, advanced training and the great skill of our staff, we have provided our citizens with the best pre-hospital care available.” Chairman Beverly also indicated that Thomas County government is dedicated to continuous improvement of service quality by using cutting edge technology. The County Commission will consider approving the purchase of 3 additional Lucas devices for use by firefighter/EMTs in other local communities in the 2011 budget.

SOURCE: WCTV

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