LUCAS Chest Compression Device Helps to save lives at NCH
is exhausting and difficult to sustain the quality necessary beyond one minute. With the LUCAS device we can continue excellent quality compressions for one to two hours or even longer if required.” The LUCAS device also helps to eliminate the risk of back injuries often suffered by personnel administering CPR. NCH got its first LUCAS device in 2010 and all NCH emergency centers now have one on-site. “It takes seconds to get it properly in place and operating,” Novakovich adds. “The time we are saving is huge. Multiple scientific studies have proven immediate and excellent quality cardiac compressions along with early defibrillation is key to achieving the best outcome for the patient. LUCAS helps us achieve that.” She shares there’s no doubt the LUCAS devices are making a difference in saving lives. Additionally, Novakovich recommends that everyone become familiar with performing cardiac compressions. Visit www.heart.org to see where you can go to attend a class on cardiac compression. The NCH Healthcare System has five very busy ERs with 123,000 visits per year. A dedicated team of emergency room physicians and medical staff are at the ready to treat arrivals with almost every injury, trauma, illness, or malady. NCH Healthcare Emergency Departments are open 24-Hours a Day, 7-Days aWeek and are located at:
S econds count when someone is in cardiac arrest. Even in a hospital, a patient needs swift and immediate medical care to ensure preservation of life as well as achieving the most optimal outcome possible. At NCH, the emergency response teammakes those seconds count by using the latest, most accurate technology available - the LUCAS Chest Compression System device. For over 25 years, the LUCAS Chest Compression System has been helping lifesaving teams around the world deliver high-quality chest compressions for adults experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. Long used in the field by Fire/EMS personnel, LUCAS is an external mechanical device that delivers uninterrupted automatic chest compressions at a rate and depth that are current and consistent with American Heart Association (AHA) guidelines. It is lightweight, portable and easy to set up. “The LUCAS is 100 percent accurate. There is no guess work,” says Betsy Novakovich, NCH Administrator of Emergency Services. “It’s the best CPR anybody can receive.” Once in place, the LUCAS can administer cardiac compressions for extended periods of time and thereby free up emergency responders to provide other life-saving care. “The LUCAS doesn’t get tired like we do,” explains Novakovich. “CPR is not what it looks like on TV. It
NCH Baker Downtown Hospital 350 7th St. N., Naples, FL 34102 NCH North Naples Hospital 11190 Health Park Blvd, Naples, FL 34110 NCH Healthcare Northeast 15420 Collier Blvd, Naples, FL 34120 NCH Healthcare Bonita 24040 S. Tamiami Trail, Bonita Springs, FL 34134 NCH Pediatric Emergency Dept. 11190 Health Park Blvd, Naples, FL 34110
Betsy Novakovich, left, and Jamie Benigno, NCH Emergency Nurse, unpack the LUCAS Chest Compression Device.
NCH HEART INSTITUTE WELCOMES DR. RANDOLPH PANETTA
As a board-certified non-invasive cardiologist with more than 12 years of experience, Randolph Panetta, M.D., is well-versed in the secrets of maintaining cardiovascular health. “Movement is the key to a long, healthy life,” says Dr. Panetta, who recently joined the NCH Heart Institute after moving to the area from Connecticut. That movement can be as simple as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, skipping the front row parking space at your favorite store and walking
“Doctors are in-tune to the signs and symptoms of heart disease, and will make a quick referral if they see a reason,” Dr. Panetta explains. “Voice your concerns and communicate any symptoms you may be having.” Dr. Panetta says he strives for good doctor-patient
relationships; those that are based on trust. “I take pride in my relationships with my patients,” he adds. “There is something important about being able to dialogue with one another. It’s also very valuable to provide patients with a listening ear. To me, that can be just as powerful as medication.”
from the rear of the parking lot, or walking around the block every day when you go out to get your mail. He tells all his patients, “The more you move, the better off you’ll be.” Nowadays, thanks to advances in the detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, Dr. Panetta says he is happy to see patients who are living – and living well – right into their 90s. “There is more of a focus on preventative medicine and I try to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease by looking at the whole body. Unfortunately, there are still individuals in their 40s and 50s who have active heart disease or who are at risk for developing it,” he adds. “The important thing is seeing your primary care physician regularly, and thoroughly describing any symptoms or changes to physical function you have experienced.”
Dr. Panetta shares that he moved to Naples with his wife and three sons to escape the cold northern winters. He reports that the entire family was happy to trade their snow-shovels for sunblock.
To schedule an appointment with Dr. Panetta , call the NCH Heart Institute at 239-624-4200 .
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