PHOENIX – Abrazo Central Campus is proud to announce the implementation of the LUCAS® Chest Compression System to its emergency department and critical care units, enhancing the ability to deliver consistent, high-quality CPR during cardiac arrest.

“It’s for extended cardiac arrest patients, to ensure adequate chest compressions and eliminate the need for human delivery of lengthened CPR,” says Victor Thornburg, ICU Nursing Director, Abrazo Central Campus.

The LUCAS (Lund University Cardiopulmonary Assist System) is a $17,500 advanced mechanical chest compression device (contained inside of what looks like a backpack) designed to support circulation in patients experiencing cardiac arrest.

It works by delivering uninterrupted, guideline-consistent compressions, even during transport or complex procedures.

“In high-stress scenarios like cardiac arrest, seconds matter — and so does the quality of chest compressions,” says Thornburg.

“The LUCAS device provides the precision, consistency and

stamina that manual CPR cannot always maintain, especially during extended resuscitation efforts or with patients experiencing movements during the process.”

While manual CPR remains a cornerstone of emergency care, the LUCAS device is increasingly improving patient outcomes in select situations — particularly when performing CPR during ambulance transport or in prolonged resuscitation scenarios.

“The LUCAS system aligns with our mission to provide advanced, efficient care using proven technologies that now reduce the physical strain on providers and ensure uninterrupted compressions and therefore support improved team coordination during high-pressure resuscitations,” says Gregory Pearson, CEO of Abrazo Central Campus.

“Our emergency care teams are committed to using every available tool to improve survival and this is another step in our ongoing investment in patient safety and clinical excellence.”