Author: Jake Beals

 

Pediatric Pads vs Pediatric Keys for AEDs: Which is better?

What’s the benefits of choosing an AED with a Pediatric Key instead of using pediatric pads? Carrie Kastner, our Education Sales Manager at Master Medical Equipment, joins us to speak on the key differences and the need to be ready for a pediatric cardiac emergency.

Delivering a life-saving shock to infants and small children

Normal pads are designed for adults, and deliver a shock which would harm infants rather than save them. Many Automated External Defibrillators require you to keep a separate set of pads just for infants and small children. Keeping up with a separate pair of pads, which have a shelf life, can be expensive and overlooked. By contrast, the Philips FRx AED uses a pediatric key, a plastic multi-use device to lower the shocking energy to 50 joules, safe for a pediatric patient. This lets you maintain only one set of pads, making rescuers simpler and keeping long-term costs down. By flipping the tab and inserting it into the AED unit, the pediatric function is now available.

This makes AED maintenance easier for you because adult and pediatric pads have different expiration dates. Adult pads tend to last for 4 to 5 years, depending on the manufacturer. Pediatric pads are only good for up to two years, meaning you have two different shelf life cycles to track. You have an extra expense. For every set of adult pads, you’re purchasing two and a half sets of pediatric pads. The Pedi Key is a great alternative, with no expiration date and allowing multiple uses. Plus, you don’t have to worry about storage temperature. It lives in the case and is there in case you need it. In a pediatric emergency, the key just pops in the top, and the machine does all the work for you. You’re still using the same pads. You’ll place the pads according to a pediatric rescue, one on the chest and one on the back, listen for directions, and the machine will take care of the energy level.

In the Philips family of AEDs, the FR3 also uses a Pedi Key. That key looks slightly different, it will be pink, which is the pediatric color but has the same function

The Philips HeartStart FRx AED is known for its durability and robust design. The FRx has an IP rating of 55, meaning it’s suitable for vehicles or to stored in not-so-climate-controlled places. We never recommend putting it anywhere too hot or cold, but the IP rating of 55 makes them durable and very hearty against most damp or dusty environments.

If you have any questions or need any information, please call us at Master Medical Equipment at 866-468-9558. We have plenty of people answering the phone ready to help you out.

 

There’s no denying Ambulance Services and First Responders work tirelessly to save lives at all hours of the day. They meet patients wherever they are and provide life-saving medical care while transporting them to the hospital. Medical professionals require rugged and reliable equipment to stand against the varying conditions in which responders find themselves. Philips designed an AED designed specifically to keep up with the harsh requirements of emergency healthcare rescue and response.

About the FRx

The Philips HeartStart FRx is not just a reliable piece of equipment; it’s a lifeline in critical situations. Its compact and lightweight design, weighing only three and a half pounds (including pads) makes it an indispensable tool for first responders. With a small, portable footprint, the FRx can be effortlessly carried to any location, ready to be deployed swiftly when every second counts.

One of the more unique features for first responders is the FRx”s “Quick-Shock” capability, which ensures that a shock can be administered within 8 seconds of initiating CPR. This speed makes a world of difference in a life-or-death situation. The 9-volt DC lithium long-life primary cell battery is a testament to the FRx’s endurance, capable of operating for up to four hours or delivering a minimum of 200 shocks, all under the condition of an external temperature of around 77 degrees Fahrenheit.

Simple & Standout Software

The FRx’s “Artifact Detection” capability is a game-changer. It enables ECG analysis in the presence of potential interference from other electronic devices like pacemakers. The FRx can provide accurate readings and assessments regardless of medical obstacles.

Maintaining the FRx is uncomplicated. The device performs daily self-tests to verify its operational readiness, ensuring it’s consistently poised to execute a rescue. Additionally, it assesses the Smart Pads II to confirm that they are prepared to deliver the most effective shock possible. This meticulous attention to readiness can make all the difference in a high-pressure situation.

The versatility of the FRx extends to extreme conditions. Its ability to function at altitudes of up to 15,000 feet positions it as a top choice for aviation rescues. Furthermore, its robust construction, boasting IPX5 Waterjet and IP5X Dustproof ratings, can withstand harsh environments. From temperatures as low as 32 degrees Fahrenheit to as high as 122 degrees Fahrenheit, the FRx proves its mettle.

Regarding pediatric rescues, Philips has studied and built their equipment to respond accurately. The Philips HeartStart FRx Pediatric Key is the right step in pad utility. By attenuating the energy output of the FRx, it ensures it’s suitable for pediatric patients, eliminating the need for separate pediatric pads. This innovative approach streamlines the rescue process and increases efficiency, which can be pivotal in critical situations.

FRx SMART Biphasic Solution

With the SMART biphasic technology, the FRx takes out the guesswork. It automatically analyzes the patient’s condition and determines whether a shock is necessary. This means the device operates precisely, providing shocks only when needed. Supported by a wealth of clinical data, the SMART biphasic external defibrillation therapy of the FRx is backed by more evidence than any other AED on the market, attesting to its effectiveness and reliability.

In the hands of a first responder, the Philips HeartStart FRx is more than just an AED; it’s a beacon of hope, a testament to human ingenuity, and a lifeline for those in need. Its rugged dependability and cutting-edge technology make AEDs a cornerstone in the arsenal of tools for those dedicated to saving lives.

At MME, we want to ensure First Responders everywhere can provide comprehensive healthcare. We work tirelessly with first responders and healthcare organizations to ensure competitive prices with products, like the FRx, that rise above the competition. Click here to see the First-Responder package for the FRx!

 

Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) contributes to a silent but deadly epidemic that claims countless lives every year. Unlike a heart attack caused by a blocked artery, cardiac arrest occurs when the heart stops beating due to an irregular heart rhythm. Without immediate intervention, cardiac arrest can be fatal within minutes. Despite their lethal nature, sudden cardiac arrests are widely misunderstood and underrepresented in public discourse. This article aims to shed light on the importance of SCA awareness, its prevalence, risk factors, and the preparation measures that make a life-saving difference.

Critical Responses

Sudden Cardiac Arrest strikes without warning, even impacting healthy individuals. It can affect people of all ages, from infants to older adults, and does not discriminate based on gender or fitness level. Contrary to popular belief, cardiac arrest is not limited to older people or those with pre-existing heart conditions. It frequently occurs in young, active individuals, highlighting the importance of raising awareness across all demographics.

Prevalence and Impact

Every year, sudden cardiac arrest claims the lives of hundreds of thousands of individuals worldwide. The American Heart Association estimates over 350,000 cases of SCA occur annually in the United States alone, making it one of the leading causes of death. Most of these incidents occur outside a hospital setting, where immediate medical attention is less readily available. Widespread awareness, preparation, and education about cardiac arrest could save countless American lives every year.

Recognizing Risk Factors

Understanding the risk factors associated with SCA is crucial. Common risk factors can include:

1. Family History: A family history of heart disease or sudden cardiac events can increase risk.
2. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Individuals with CAD who constrict arteries and diminish the amount of blood spread to the heart are at a higher risk of experiencing SCA.
3. Heart Conditions: Cardiopathy, arrhythmias, and congenital heart defects can predispose individuals to SCA.
4. Hypertension: A large amount of blood pressure can increase the risk of sudden cardiac events.
5. Drug Use: Certain substances, particularly stimulants like cocaine, can trigger SCA.

Many cardiac arrest victims have underlying heart conditions, but many don’t show any symptoms or have any risk factors. EKG screening can detect certain underlying heart conditions, helping to identify and prepare individuals with a higher risk of cardiac arrest.

Education and Awareness Campaigns

Raising awareness about Sudden Cardiac Arrest is paramount in equipping communities with the knowledge and tools to respond effectively (like this one!). Educational campaigns should target schools, workplaces, and public spaces, providing information on recognizing the signs of SCA, performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), and deploying Automated External Defibrillators.

The Power of CPR and AEDs

Immediate action is the key to saving lives in cases of sudden cardiac arrest. When administered promptly, CPR maintains oxygen delivery to the vital organs, buying precious minutes until professional help arrives. An AED, a portable device that delivers an electric shock to restart the heart’s rhythm, is equally vital. Manufacturers design AEDs to be used by anyone (especially non-professionals), providing step-by-step visual and vocal instructions for bystanders to save a life.

Community Empowerment

Communities play a crucial role in bolstering SCA awareness and response. Local governments, schools, and organizations should regularly offer CPR + AED training programs for staff, parents, teachers, and students. Making AEDs readily available in public spaces, such as malls, parks, and transportation hubs, can significantly improve response times and outcomes.

Sudden Cardiac Arrest is a silent epidemic that demands our attention. Through education, awareness, and community empowerment, we can significantly reduce the devastating impact of SCA. By recognizing risk factors, learning life-saving techniques like CPR, and ensuring widespread access to AEDs, we can transform communities into safe havens where lives are protected and preserved.

At Master Medical Equipment, our mission is to raise awareness and equip communities to save lives from sudden cardiac arrest. We offer rescue-ready AEDs (such as the Philips FRx) and recertified options that work with any budget, as well as CPR training to equip and prepare you to save a life.

 

There’s a lot to consider when selecting an infusion pump. To help guide the search process, Jon Abernathy speaks on five things to consider when purchasing one of these life-saving devices.

1- Accuracy

The first reason you’re getting an infusion pump is because a precise dosage is needed at a precise time. You need each infusion to be right on the mark to give the best care possible.

Healthcare providers must deliver these drugs accurately, so look at the technical specifications of the various pumps on the market. The faster you can have these treatments ready to go, the sooner you can take the next steps in the healthcare process.

Also, research how difficult it is to set up and edit the pump’s drug library. These pre-loaded infusions will allow quick and easy access and save time during a rescue or treatment. Accurate doses every time save you time and also helps to protect your patients; that would be the first thing to look for.

2- Durability

Consider the placement of your infusion pump, and the duress it will take on a daily basis. While some infusion pumps will go to clinics, many pumps will go in an ambulance. These service vehicles go out into uncertain environments every day, and these rough circumstances could damage a pump if responders aren’t careful.

Pumps like the Sapphire have proved to take a solid beating and maintain accuracy.

3- Battery Life

There may be times when you don’t have access to AC power when delivering infusions, whether transporting the patient down the hall to another room or bringing a patient to the hospital. Critical transport moments are when you most need a long battery life.

4- Manufacturer Support

Ensuring your device isn’t considered “end of life” is high on the priority list. These devices are an investment, and the last thing you want is to purchase a pump only to have limited-to-no support for your infusion pump with dwindling access to disposables and batteries. Then you’re right back where you started.

5- Readily Accessible Disposals

Tips four and five are closely linked. Just like the importance of manufacturer support to ensure the availability of these disposables, it is equally crucial to ensure your new pump is user-friendly and allows you to use disposables quickly and efficiently.

Lives are on the line, so make sure you choose the best line to suit your job.

If you have any questions about finding the right infusion pump for you, Master Medical Equipment is ready to help! Reach out to us for more information and discover how we can deliver a cost-effective solution to equip you to save a life. Give us a call at 866-468-9558 today.

 

Jon Abernathy talks with us today to debunk six common myths about AEDs:

Myth #1- AEDs Are For Medical Professionals

This myth suggests that only trained medical professionals can use AEDs. However, the reality is that AEDs are designed for everyone, including bystanders without medical training. By following the device’s prompts, anyone can effectively use an AED to help save a life.

Myth #2- AEDs Are A Substitute For CPR

The second myth states that an AED can replace CPR. In truth, both CPR and AEDs play crucial roles in saving lives. However, CPR helps circulate oxygenated blood throughout the body , while an AED assists in restoring a normal heart rhythm. Some defibrillator pads carry a puck in the middle to aid someone giving CPR.

Myth #3- You Cannot Shock Someone Who’s Wet

The third myth claims you cannot administer shock using an AED on a wet person. Indeed, electricity and water don’t mix. However, if someone is in sudden cardiac arrest and has been removed from a pool or wet environment, you can safely use an AED after quickly drying their skin where rescuers will place the pads.

Myth #4- AEDs Can Shock Someone Who Doesn’t Need It

The fourth myth suggests that AEDs can shock and injure individuals who don’t require one. However, AEDs are intelligent devices that analyze the heart’s rhythm and only administer a shock when a shockable rhythm is detected. Therefore, you can trust the AED to guide you and determine whether a shock is necessary.

Myth #5- You Cannot Use An AED On A Child

The fifth myth states that AEDs cannot be used on children. However, most AEDs come equipped with specialized pediatric pads or a pediatric key specifically designed to deliver shocks appropriate for children. These pads ensure the safe usage of AEDs on children during emergencies.

Myth #6- AEDs Are Expensive

The last myth is that AEDs are expensive. While this can be true in some cases, at Master Medical Equipment, we offer new or recertified AED units suitable for every budget. By offering affordable options to rent, finance, or purchase, we work hard to make AEDs accessible to everyone.

Understanding the capability of AEDs is essential, but just as important is having an AED and keeping it rescue-ready. We offer comprehensive annual AED checkups through our certified biomedical partners, ReNew Biomedical, and other services such as preventative maintenance, repairs, and service contracts. By ensuring proper maintenance, you can secure peace of mind and longevity for your AED equipment.

If you have any questions about choosing the right AED or maintaining your current equipment, Master Medical Equipment is ready to assist you! Reach out to us today for more information and discover how we can deliver a cost-effective solution to equip you to save a life.
 

 

At Master Medical Equipment, we recognize that your equipment is your lifeline as an EMS agency or first responder. You rely on it in emergencies to save lives and provide the best possible care to your patients. But what happens when that equipment isn’t calibrated right or hasn’t been maintained properly? The consequences can be disastrous, leading to delayed response times, misdiagnoses, or even death.

As a capital medical equipment provider, our goal is to ensure the optimal performance of your medical equipment, particularly for Emergency Medical Services and first responders. Regular medical equipment maintenance ensures reliability, functionality, and safety, ultimately saving more lives while also easing your budget. Let’s examine the importance of regular equipment maintenance for pre-hospital response and how it benefits EMS agencies, paramedics, and patients.

It’s no surprise that regular maintenance helps ensure your equipment is always ready for use. EMS and first responders rely on AEDs, defibrillators, infusion pumps, ventilators, stretchers, and other equipment to help save lives. Your equipment must work as fast as you do, with extreme accuracy and dependability. Calibration errors can lead to disaster. Additionally, mistreated equipment is more prone to error or malfunctions, which, at best, wastes precious time and, at worst, can have life-threatening consequences.

Regular maintenance also helps keep EMS agencies cost-efficient. Well-maintained equipment lasts longer, requires fewer repairs, and is less likely to break down. This service reduces the need for repairs and delays the need to purchase replacement equipment. Additionally, regular maintenance and calibration can detect minor problems before they become significant, meaning you lower your long-term cost of ownership.

Furthermore, regular maintenance can save time for EMS agencies and first responders. Every second counts in an emergency and any delay caused by malfunctioning equipment can be catastrophic. By ensuring that equipment is always in good working order, EMS agencies and first responders can reduce the time spent troubleshooting equipment and focus on delivering patient care.

For example, a defibrillator is vital for restoring normal heart rhythm in patients experiencing cardiac arrest. If a defibrillator is not regularly maintained and calibrated, it may cause delays or deliver inaccurate information. Regular maintenance can help detect faulty batteries, worn electrodes, and malfunctioning leads, which you can address before they cause a serious problem.

Another example is EMS stretchers, an essential part of patient safety and transport. Over time, stretchers can become worn and damaged, leading to an increased risk of injury for the patient or EMS provider. Regular maintenance and refurbishing can help address issues such as worn belts, faulty brakes, and broken motors, ensuring the stretcher is always in good working order.

Regular maintenance ensures your patient and staff’s safety and well-being. At Master Medical Equipment, we understand the importance of routine maintenance and offer comprehensive services to help you keep your equipment in top shape. We offer Preventative Maintenance and repairs through our certified biomedical partners, ReNew Biomedical. We also offer Service Contracts, which include “bumper-to-bumper” coverage on all regular wear and tear, as well as annual PM/Calibrations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you save money and extend the life of your equipment.

 

 

 

What’s in The Box?

We’ll start the overview by unboxing the device and reviewing the specific features the VScan offers.

The device comes out of the box with a magnetic case that holds the device inside. The VScan Air has a wireless charging pad and some paperwork outlining the device’s contents. The case has a slim design, making it very capable of being slid into a pocket or a bag, making it perfect for transport. Transport is the key when it comes to the VScan. With remote functionality via Bluetooth, you can easily display ultrasound on IOS and Android mobile devices.

The VScan allows you to observe situations at the point of care, whether in the patient’s home or on the way to the hospital. This device will enable you to perform guided clinical decisions with the vascular access and drainage procedures with the help of the visual scan. Allows 90% of the American College of Emergency Physicians core applications to help diagnose everyday occurrences in patients. Standard exams in pre-hospital settings are a breeze with this device.

The VScan Air CL Ultrasound System consists of a dual-headed probe that integrates both curved and linear array transducers and an app available on Android™ or iOS® mobile devices. This compact device’s pocket-sized portability and simplified user interface make it suitable for professional healthcare facilities such as hospitals, clinics, medical offices, home environments, road/air ambulances, and other environments described in the product user manual.

Security

Security is a priority with the VScan, keeping out intrusions while sharing information a breeze.

• DICOM®, including query from Modality Worklist server, Store to DICOM PACS, receive Storage Commitment
• JPG/MPG exports to shared network folders (supports importing into EMR)
• Share auto-anonymized images with other apps
• Exam data does not go to the cloud and can stay within an organization
• Secure DICOM, including the option of Peer Authentication
• Secure User Authentication
• Password required to access patient data

One tool, multiple solutions

This unique device is easy to use in various ways and has established itself as a stand-out unit.

This device is helpful for basic/focused assessments and adjectively with other medical data for clinical diagnostic purposes during periodic follow-up and triage assessments for adult, as well as pediatric, and neonatal patients. It is also helpful for interventional guidance. VScan Air customers can access the VScan online portal, including access to product and product usage information for various clinical scenarios.

The Vscan also includes imaging modes such as B Mode and Color flow. The device has a linear transducer for shallow scanning, with a frequency range of 3 – 12 MHz and a maximum depth of 8cm. Need a deeper scan? Use the curved transducer, with a frequency range of 2 – 5 MHz and a maximum depth of 24 cm, the VScan can give a clearer reading at a greater depth.

Master Medical Equipment is happy to answer any questions that you may have concerning equipment needs. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team is here for you. We have an online chat feature where you can contact us through our website. Or give us a phone call at 866-704-5617.

 

 

At Master Medical Equipment, we believe in giving you the tools to make the best choices. We want to equip you with knowledge of all the choices and options you have at your disposal as a consumer.

What is the purpose of Suction Units?

The overarching goal of suction in EMS is to mitigate retained or excessive upper and lower respiratory tract secretions in patients who are unable to do so effectively for themselves. SpO2 should be monitored during suction to ensure the patient does not experience suction-induced hypoxia.

In this article, we are going to examine the two leading manufacturers of Portable Suction Units:
SSCOR – Founded in 1980, suction is SSCOR’s primary focus.
Laerdal Medical – Began creating suction units in 1969 and has since expanded their catalogue to training, educational and other medical devices.

SSCOR:

S-SCORT III EMS Portable Suction Unit:

• The S-Scort III is the leader in today’s EMS environment! It provides all the power and versatility to quickly and effectively clear an airway, weighs only 7 pounds, and is economical to purchase and maintain.
• It has a 2-position regulator to choose full or reduced power for endotracheal and pediatric suction procedures.
• Sealed Battery and includes: Dual mode charger, DC power cord, canister, 2m tube, suction tip.
• One Year Warranty

SSCOR VX-2:

The SSCOR VX-2 is a portable, powerful battery-powered suction unit that can be mounted in the action area of an ambulance and used as onboard suction. An optional charging/retention bracket connects the team to vehicle power at all times.

• With a variable regulator gauge, outward-facing controls, and drawing power from the vehicle, the VX-2 is set up for onboard suction but can easily be removed from the retention bracket and used as portable suction.
• One Year Warranty

SSCOR DCELL:

• Perfect for disaster preparedness. It can be stored for long periods without the need for charging.
• 6-9 hour run time
• It can also be powered indefinitely by DC or AC optional charging cords
• Variable regulator and gauge
• Battery condition indicator
• 3-year warranty

SSCOR Quickdraw:

• The Quickdraw easily fits into an airway or first-in bag so that you can have quality medical suction available at the patient’s side. It provides suction as efficiently as a large aspirator but weighs only 2.6 pounds.
• Perfect for disaster preparedness. It can be stored for long periods without the need for charging.
• Battery pack run time is 3 hours.
• You can also use 10 AAA alkaline batteries with an optional battery holder.
• 3-hour run time
• One year warranty

Laerdal:

Laerdal LCSU 4

This version has a 800ml disposable Canister supported by a Wire Stand bracket. The Canister has an internal filter in the lid and mechanical shutoff valve that protects against contamination and overflow. To increase filtration efficiency the Vacuum Tube may be replaced with a High Efficiency Filter Kit. The Kit is used in situations where there is a high risk of cross-contamination.

• Compact, powerful, and reliable, the LCSU 4 combines a rugged design with lightweight portability, making it an essential tool for every first responder.
• 300 or 800 ml disposable canister (800ml shown)
• External power indicator
• Variable regulator
• Field replaceable high-capacity NiMH battery pack
• Approximately 45-minute run time
• 2-year warranty (excluding canister, tubing, and Battery. Battery = 90 days)

Laerdal LSU

• Ergonomic and quick to break down and assemble.
• Control panel with color-coding for children’s vacuum range area.
• According to Laerdal: LSU can reach a vacuum of 500+ mmHg and has a flow rate of >25 LPM, exceeding international standards.
• Canister Options: Available as a reusable or semi-disposable option, providing easy conversions between the canister systems.
• Approximately 45-minute run time. Charges to 80% after 3 hours
• Five-year warranty
• The average lifespan of 10 years

We are here to answer any questions you may have about these portable suction units. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer service team is here to help you find a solution! Call us at 866-468-9558 or check out our site’s live chat feature today!

 

 

The Sapphire Multi-therapy Infusion Pump is a highly accurate infusion pump for EMS that delivers medications to patients precisely. This IV pump has become increasingly popular for emergency medical in recent years because of its simplicity, ease of use, durability, and accuracy. The Sapphire pump is used by medical professionals in various settings, from pre-hospital EMS transport to clinical environments. Trent Harris, the Clinical Sales Manager at Master Medical Equipment, and Mark Walker, one of the principal owners of Guardian Group Training, explain why the Sapphire pump is gaining popularity and its unique features. Read on or watch their video below.

Interface

The Sapphire Infusion Pump, formerly the Q Core Infusion pump, is simple to operate, a crucial detail for paramedics and EMT professionals. Many IV pumps in EMS fields are complicated to use and learn, but the Sapphire pump’s interface sets it apart. The pump only has two buttons on its face: a stop button and an on/off button. Additionally, three indicator lights are on the right side of the pump. The top light flashes and sounds an audible alarm when an infusion is interrupted. The middle light is a charge indicator that indicates when the unit is charging, and the bottom light indicates a running infusion. The pump’s touch screen is pressure-sensitive, not heat-sensitive, so it can still be used even when the screen is wet or dirty.

Accuracy

One of the defining features of the Sapphire pump is its accuracy. The pump is accurate to within ± 2.5%, better than the industry standard of ± 5%. This level of accuracy is essential for delivering medications to patients with care and precision, and it is one of the main reasons medical professionals choose the Sapphire pump.

Care areas

Another important feature of the Sapphire pump is that it has 40 different clinical care areas, each of which can hold up to 1000 medications. EMS and transport medics can put any formulary of any concentration within their drug library and pull up that medication with the touch of a button. This feature allows for easy administration of medications and makes the Sapphire pump an ideal choice for medical professionals who need to deliver treatment quickly and accurately.

Unboxing and important accessories

The pump comes in a box that includes the pump itself, a cradle for holding the device, and a charging cord. The charging cable has a lock on the hub, which prevents damage to the ribbon inside the port. The Sapphire pump has proprietary drip sets, typical of most pumps.

We highly recommend a few additional items to compliment your sapphire pump:

• A compact EMS case. This case is much more space-efficient than others on the market and even lets you charge the unit while safely stored inside the case.
• The FERNO triple mount. This triple mount is angled to optimize the interface and interaction with each pump while remaining compact for delivering multiple medications.
• X-Shear case: This firm protective case further improves durability and ensures the long life of your pump.

The Sapphire pump is a highly accurate and reliable medical device ideal for delivering medications. The Sapphire Infusion Pump belongs in an ambulance, pre-acute transport, EMS toolkits, and paramedic go-bags. The Eitan Sapphire intravenous pump is simple, durable, easy to use, and accurate, making it the best choice for EMS to deliver infusions quickly and precisely.

To learn more, view our highlight page or watch the video below!

Master Medical Equipment is here to answer any questions about these life-saving devices. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer service department is here to help you find a solution! Call us at 866-468-9558 or check out our live chat feature on our website today!

 

At Master Medical Equipment, we like to show off the capabilities of life-saving equipment and clinical evidence showing their effectiveness. Today we are highlighting a clinical study showcasing the effectiveness of the Defibtech Lifeline ARM.

The Lifeline ARM is a product in the EMS industry gaining popularity for its ease of use, consistent quality compressions, and price point. To highlight how much the ARM can impact survival rates, we look at a study from Buncombe County EMS.

Buncombe County SCA Survival study:¹

In 2017, Buncombe County EMS began using the Defibtech Lifeline ARM. From March through October 2017, analysts captured accelerometer data measuring chest compression rate from the monitor/defibrillator records. Buncombe County EMS staff reviewed the accelerometer for all cardiac arrest cases when available.

Buncombe County shared its CARES (Cardiac Arrest Registry to Enhance Survival) report for this study, and found the survival rate for witnessed Vfib cardiac arrests across Buncombe County was 40% in 2017, compared to 32% in 2016. Integrating the Lifeline ARM Automated Chest Compression device into their protocol helped BCEMS raise their out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest rates by eight percent in just one year.

Qualitative reviews of the accelerometer graphs found that in 100% of the 64 cases where analysts captured data, manual CPR before applying the ARM appeared to be faster than the target rate range of 100-120. This means manual CPR did not meet the criteria for Quality Chest compressions, and manual compressions weren’t allowing for optimal chest recoil.¹

Quality of Manual vs Automated Chest Compressions:²

Another study was conducted using the Lifeline ARM. Researchers created a randomized crossover with a Training Simulator Manikin. Thirty-eight EMS nurses participated in the study, all having been trained in manual and mechanical CPR scenarios according to the ERC 2015 guidelines. The study compared manual chest compressions vs. the Defibtech Lifeline ARM device, using the Resusci-Anne manikin.

Experiment:
Participants performed 2 min of asynchronous CPR scenario. The first group started manual CPR; the second performed CPR using the Lifeline ARM. After completing the first CPR procedure, participants had a 20-minute break before performing CPR attempts using a different method.

The primary endpoint was the percentage of correct chest compressions (CCs) relative to the total number of compressions. Secondary endpoints were:

• Depth.
• The pressure of the point.
• Complete pressure release.
• Rate of chest compressions.
• Hands-off time.

The measurements were performed in a standard ambulance vehicle during transport on a preferred track of 5.0 km.

Results
Manual chest compressions were performed correctly less often than mechanical CC (29%vs. 93%. The median CC depth was deeper with LifeLine ARM 55 mm avg vs. 40 mm avg)

The results with the ARM were significantly better than manual CC for all the analyzed variables: correct CC, CC rate, correct CC depth, correct pressure point, and correct pressure release.

Even EMS systems recently implemented and trained on “pit-crew” high-performance CPR and utilizing real-time chest compression feedback devices. EMTs and paramedics perform manual chest compression at inconsistent rates, often faster than recommended, and must be deeper to provide quality CPR.

With Automatic Chest Compression Devices, EMS can easily integrate Mechanical CPR into their systems. Mechanical CPR with the Lifeline ARM can provide chest compressions at the AHA-recommended target rate more consistently than paramedics and EMTs performing manual CPR.

Purpose
Each year, as studies indicated, there are approximately 420,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests in the United States and 275,000 in Europe. The European Resuscitation Council and American Heart Association guidelines for cardiopulmonary resuscitation have recommended minimizing manual chest compressions.

Survival after cardiac arrest depends on prompt and good-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Those guidelines recommended that rescuers should: push hard to a depth of at least 5 cm at a rate of at least 100 compressions per minute (but not over 120 per minute), allow full recoil of the chest between compressions, and also, and minimize interruptions in the chest compressions. Several studies have demonstrated decreasing chest compressions quality over time during CPR.

Conclusions
In manikin simulated controlled conditions, during transport with ongoing resuscitation, using the LifeLine ARM compared to manual chest compressions increased CPR quality. Further clinical trials are warranted to confirm our results. However, there is no denying the correlation between steady, consistent chest compressions and a rise in survival rates. The ARM allows for ease of use when assembling and compressing, making it one of the best options for your chest compression devices. ²

Have any questions about the Defibtech ARM? Our team is here to provide an answer! Request a quote here to learn about our best price or bulk discounts. Or contact us today to speak to our friendly and knowledgeable team at 866.417.2546 or salessupport@mmemed.com.

Master Medical Equipment is here to answer any questions about these life-saving devices. Our friendly and knowledgeable customer service department is here to help you find a solution! Call us at 866-468-9558 or check out our live chat feature on our website today!

¹Stace Horine, DO¹,², Jamison Judd, NRP¹, Ned Fowler, EMT-P², Buncombe County EMS, North Carolina; 2Mission Health, Asheville, North Carolina
²Szarpak L, Truszewski Z, Czyzewski L, Frass M, Robak O. CPR using the Lifeline ARM mechanical chest compression device: a randomized, crossover, manikin trial. The American journal of Emergency Medicine. 2017 Jan 1;35(1):96-100.