Quinn Bender

Kitimat General Hospital has acquired a LUCAS Chest Compression System for its emergency room, marking a significant improvement in emergency care for the community, made possible through local contributions and key fundraisers.

“We are beyond grateful for the overwhelming support from our donors and community partners who have made this possible,” said Laurel D'Andrea, president of the Kitimat General Hospital Foundation. “This equipment will enhance the care we provide to our patients and ensure that our healthcare professionals have the tools they need to make a difference when every second counts.”

The LUCAS device delivers automated chest compressions during cardiac arrest, allowing emergency staff to focus on other critical interventions. It also helps reduce fatigue and injury among hospital staff by taking over physically demanding and repetitive compressions during prolonged resuscitation efforts.

Funding for the life-saving technology was raised through several community-led initiatives, including the 2024 Smile Cookie Campaign, the KGHF Coffee Raffle and the 2024 Skeena Wild Film & Photo Festival.