Goodyear air medical services uses automated CPR device 

Native Air 23, a provider of air medical services, has introduced a new automated CPR device to its emergency medical flight operations, a move officials say will enhance patient care and improve safety during transport.

The base, which operates out of Goodyear, is now using the ZOLL AutoPulse NXT, a mechanical CPR device that delivers uninterrupted chest compressions to cardiac patients while in transit. The device aims to address the limitations of manual CPR, which can be physically demanding and difficult to maintain at a consistent quality during flight.

“Performing high-quality CPR during air transport used to require tough choices between patient care and crew safety,” said Dr. Stephanie Queen, senior vice president of clinical services at Air Methods. “This device eliminates that trade-off, allowing us to deliver lifesaving care without compromising safety.”

According to the company, the AutoPulse NXT rollout across its community-based fleet earlier this year supports its broader goal of improving clinical outcomes. Air Methods teams administer CPR to more than 600 patients annually.

“The AutoPulse NXT is a game-changer for both our crews and our patients,” said Lucas Garcia, Native Air flight paramedic and base outreach coordinator. “Mechanical CPR provides continuous, consistent compressions without fatigue, eliminating the need to rotate providers every two minutes. It also frees up our team to focus on other vital interventions during transport.”

Native Air 23 intends to provide 24/7 air transport coverage for critical patients in partnership with hospitals and first responders. Crews respond to a variety of emergencies, including cardiac events, trauma, burns, and strokes. The aircraft function as flying intensive care units staffed by specially trained clinicians.

Visit airmethods.com for more information.