In this episode we review the available evidence, and the pros and cons, of using mechanical CPR devices like the LUCAS or Autopulse for ski patrol and mountain rescue applications.
Episode links:
CPR With a Lucas Device - An example video from EMS training
Viglino et. al. - Outcomes of On-Hill Cardiac Arrests - More saves, probably because of younger patients, bystander CPR, shockable rhythms, and shorter time to defib.
WMS Guidelines on the Care of Avalanche Victims - Recommends LUCAS use for prolonged transports and extrications.
Putzer et. al. - LUCAS in Simulated Helicopter Rescue
"Physical strain during a realistic alpine rescue mission scenario at high altitude led to a significant reduction in quality of resuscitation. Resuscitation guidelines developed at sea level are not directly applicable in the mountain terrain."
Wang et. al. - CPR Quality at Altitude, Unacclimatized Rescuers
Egger et. al. - CPR Quality at High Altitude, Acclimatized Rescuers
Cascade Rescue 'Trauma One' Toboggan
YouTube: Alyeska Resort Patrol High Performance CPR in Toboggan
As always, thanks for listening to Wilderness Medicine Updates, hosted by Patrick Fink MD FAWM.
Connect with us by email at wildernessmedicineupdates@gmail.com.
You can pay us a compliment and share the show with a new listener on any popular platform here.
Popular Podcasts
Bookmarked by Reese's Book Club
Welcome to Bookmarked by Reese’s Book Club — the podcast where great stories, bold women, and irresistible conversations collide! Hosted by award-winning journalist Danielle Robay, each week new episodes balance thoughtful literary insight with the fervor of buzzy book trends, pop culture and more. Bookmarked brings together celebrities, tastemakers, influencers and authors from Reese's Book Club and beyond to share stories that transcend the page. Pull up a chair. You’re not just listening — you’re part of the conversation.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com