New Boston Fire Improves Emergency Response with New Device

NEW BOSTON, NH - The New Boston Fire Department is better positioned today to save lives thanks to a new device donated by CMC’s New England Heart and Vascular Institute Foundation, according to Chief Dan MacDonald.

The LUCAS Chest Compression System assists first responders in performing CPR by providing automated chest compressions when placed on a patient. CMC and the New England Heart and Vascular Institute presented the device, valued at $14,000, to the department on May 11, 2016.

Because travel times from New Boston to CMC can be as long as 45 minutes, this device is vital for a two-person, volunteer ambulance crew to continue high performance chest compressions.

“Many times while transporting a patient, interruption of chest compressions are inevitable due to obstacles such as stairwells and transfers onto the cot,” said Captain Gina Catalano of the New Boston Fire Department. “In addition, performing chest compressions in a moving ambulance most likely requires the care provider remove their seatbelt. This device removes that unsafe situation making it much safer for the care providers during transportation.”

Louis Fink, MD and Medical Director of the New England Heart and Vascular Institute, added, “That window from the time a patient calls 9-1-1 with a heart event until they arrive at the hospital is a critical one for improving the patient’s outcomes. Every minute counts. The LUCAS device increases the quality of care a patient receives and reduces the physical demands on the first responders.”

CMC and the New England Heart and Vascular Institute are focused on improving the quality of pre-hospital care in the field, having worked closely with many Fire and EMS Departments in the state to secure training, enhance communication, and obtain life-saving equipment.

Caption: Lt. Rick Riendeau, Rescue Captain Gina Catalano, presenting form the New England Heart and Vascular Institute/CMC, Dr. Louis Fink.

Submitted by New Boston Fire Department.