Mechanical CPR

What Is Mechanical CPR?

Mechanical CPR is the automated delivery of chest compressions using an electromechanical device (such as the LUCAS piston system or AutoPulse load-distributing band) that delivers continuous, high-quality compressions at a rate of 102 CPM and depth of 2 inches without fatigue.

Why Mechanical CPR Matters on the Fireground

Manual CPR compressions deteriorate significantly after 2 minutes due to rescuer fatigue. Mechanical CPR maintains perfect compression depth, rate, and recoil during ambulance transport, down narrow staircases, and during prolonged cardiac arrest resuscitation.

Relevant NFPA Standards

• NREMT Standards: National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians Practice Standards
• NFPA 455: Standard for Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

Field Procedures & Tactical Steps

1. Initiate manual high-quality CPR while preparing the mechanical CPR device.
2. Slide the support backplate under the patient's torso during a planned 5-second compression pause.
3. Attach upper arch unit over patient's chest and lock suction cup or band in place.
4. Power on device and resume automated compressions (confirming rate of 100-120 CPM and 2-inch depth).
5. Check carotid pulse and capnography (ETCO2) to verify mechanical compression effectiveness.

Common Context & Application

Applied during prehospital cardiac arrest resuscitation, prolonged CPR, refractory VF/VT transport, and ECMO-CPR protocols.

Frequently Asked Questions about Mechanical CPR