Sun Peaks Mountain Rescue Society purchased an automated CPR machine. It is not an easy task to deliver CPR to an individual while sliding down a ski hill in an emergency toboggan. With the community donations, the ski community at Sun Peaks B.C. now has a new way to save lives.
CPR in the wilderness
The Sun Peaks Mountain Rescue Society bought an automated CPR machine. It is an expensive device that straps onto the chest of a person in cardiac arrest and delivers automated compressions.
According to Sue Elder, a paramedic and volunteer ski patroller, they have always struggled with the idea of how to transport a person down the mountain while ongoing CPR is in progress.
Better option
Elder added that there are 2 main options in delivering CPR while a person is transported off the mountainside – ski patroller hops in the toboggan and delivers consistent compressions while bouncing down the hill or alternates between moving and giving CPR.
Neither option is beneficial for the individual or patroller. The third option, although expensive is believed to be worth the cost since it allows one to safely perform CPR while on the way down the mountain. The Lifeline ARM compression device costs around $15,000. With the help of donations from the community, the rescue society was able to buy the device.
Chance for survival
According to Dean Schiavon, prevention officer with Sun Peaks Fire and Rescue, an issue of concern is the extreme terrain that first responders must face on the mountain. Aside from the limited crews, they also have to wait for a long time for an ambulance to get up the mountain.
Performing CPR manually can wear out the responders. According to Chris Mark, patrol supervisor at the resort northeast of Kamloops, the device is a lifesaver. If a cardiac arrest occurs out on the hill, it frees up hands to be able to transport the person off the mountain. It can greatly increase the chances of survival.
Importance of first aid training
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and using an automated external defibrillator (AED) can save a life. Prompt delivery of life-saving techniques improves the chances of survival during emergencies.
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LEARN MORE
Learn how to help by enrolling in first aid and CPR course and for more information, check out these sources:
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/default.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardiopulmonary_resuscitation
https://www.webmd.com/first-aid/cardiopulmonary-resuscitation-cpr-treatment