2 introduction – Physio-Control LUCAS 2 User Manual

Page 6

LUCAS

2 Chest Compression System – Instructions for Use

2 Introduction

2.1 LUCAS™ Chest Compression

System

The LUCAS™ Chest Compression System is
a portable tool designed to overcome
problems identified with manual chest
compressions. LUCAS assists rescuers by
delivering effective, consistent and
continuous chest compressions
as recommended in the American Heart
Association guidelines

2.2 Intended use

LUCAS Chest Compression System is to be
used for performing external cardiac
compressions on adult patients who have
acute circulatory arrest defined as absence
of spontaneous breathing and pulse, and
loss of consciousness.

LUCAS must only be used in cases where
chest compressions are likely to help the
patient.

2.3 Contraindications

Do NOT use the LUCAS Chest Compression
System in these cases:

• If it is not possible to position LUCAS safe-

ly or correctly on the patient's chest.

• Too small patient: If you cannot enter the

PAUSE mode or ACTIVE mode when the
pressure pad touches the patient's chest
and LUCAS alarms with 3 fast signals.

• Too large patient: If you cannot lock the

Upper Part of LUCAS to the Back Plate
without compressing the patient's chest.

Always follow local and/or international
guidelines for CPR when using LUCAS.

2.4 Side effects

The International Liaison Committee on
Resuscitation (ILCOR) states these side
effects of CPR

"Rib fractures and other injuries are common
but acceptable consequences of CPR given
the alternative of death from cardiac arrest.
After resuscitation, all patients should be
reassessed and re-evaluated for
resuscitation-related injuries."

Apart from the above, bruising and soreness
of the chest are common during the use of
the LUCAS Chest Compression System.

2.5 Main parts

The main parts of the LUCAS Chest
Compression System include;

• A Back Plate which is positioned under-

neath the patient as a support for the ex-
ternal chest compressions.

• An Upper Part which contains the propri-

etary and rechargeable LUCAS Battery
and the compression mechanism with the
disposable Suction Cup.

• A Stabilization Strap which helps to se-

cure the position of the device in relation
to the patient.

• A padded Carrying Bag.

1. 2010 American Heart Association Guidelines for Car-

diopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardio-
vascular Care, Circulation 2010; 122: S639-946

2. 2005 International Concensus on Cardiopulmonary

Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care
Science with Treatment Recommendations. Resusci-
tation 2005;67:195