So how do you use that big fancy LUCAS machine? Pretty easy actually, but worth knowing before your arresting patient arrives.

1) Position the machine on the patient: Put the yellow back plate under the patient; this should be neatly centered behind the patient’s sternum to facilitate accurate application of the suction cup. Now click the upper part of the LUCAS machine into place.

2) Position the suction cup: Turn the machine on. Press the orange button (labelled 1) to put the machine in adjust mode. Now use your fingers to lower the suction cup to the patient’s sternum. It should be placed where your hands would go if you were doing CPR. Push PAUSE button (labelled 2) to lock the start position of the suction cup. Now push button (labelled 3) to initiate CPR. So the button order is 1-2-3. Mnemonic device in process to remember that.

Now step back and appreciate the decrease in code chaos without continuing rotations of compressors. Use the increased mental clarity for thoughtful arrest management; consider your reversible causes of cardiac arrest and direct your interventions towards the most plausible possibilities.