In a world full of consistently bad news, it is always nice to highlight individuals who are doing good work, like a company based out of Redmond, Washington called Physio-Control.
Physio-Control has invented an automated CPR machine that can outperform humans, and as a result, help save more lives.
The machine, dubbed LUCAS-2, can perform compressions for a longer amount of time than a human. This is important, because while human-administered CPR, when employed properly, can save lives, it is hard work; people get fatigued and can’t keep up.
Enter LUCAS-2 , which by using a piston-like mechanism can make CPR more efficient and in turn, can free up paramedics to take on other critical life-saving measures. Simply turn on the machine and leave it in place.
That’s the good news. The bad news is that cash-strapped municipalities can’t afford the machine. And, that being said, bystander CPR is nonetheless extremely successful whenever employed. Bottom line: you don’t need a LUCAS-2 to save lives, just onsite CPR certification.