The Chicago Fire Department recently added “AutoPulse” to its inventory equipment to support lifesaving efforts of patients in cardiac arrest.
AutoPulse automatically sizes to the patient's chest, then performs CPR, squeezing to keep the blood flowing. This means rescuers can work on airway issues, CBS Chicago reported.
The department said the device frees up rescuers from doing compressions so they can focus on other interventions critical to patient outcomes.
The device will enhance a rescuer’s ability to quickly establish a patient's airway and to transport the patient in tight spaces and on their rescue boats.
The fire department will start using the AutoPulse devices on rescue boats at the start of the season.
