Montrose Regional Health has added a new automated resuscitation device to its cardiology services, expanding its capacity to deliver consistent, high-quality CPR during cardiac arrest cases.
The hospital recently began using the AutoPulse NXT Resuscitation System, an automated chest compression device designed to provide continuous, hands-free CPR while adjusting to a patient’s body size. The system helps maintain blood flow to the brain and heart during cardiac arrest, allowing clinical staff to focus on advanced lifesaving care.
The device was purchased using grant funding that covered 75 percent of its cost, according to Montrose Regional Health. Funding support included contributions from the Mabel Y. Hughes Charitable Trust and the Western Regional EMS and Trauma Advisory Council, or WRETAC, a regional organization that works to strengthen emergency and trauma care across western Colorado through education, coordination and quality improvement initiatives.
“We are grateful for the partners who help make these critical investments possible,” said Robyn Funk, grant writer at Montrose Regional Health. “Support from organizations like these strengthens regional collaboration and helps ensure patients in our community have access to advanced cardiac care when every second matters.”
The cardiology team at Montrose Regional Health will use the AutoPulse NXT primarily in the hospital’s catheterization lab during cardiac arrest cases that require advanced imaging and intervention. Unlike manual CPR, the automated system allows chest compressions to continue without interruption during procedures, including those that require fluoroscopy or other imaging.
The device also helps reduce radiation exposure for clinical staff by allowing them to step back from the patient during imaging while CPR continues.
“The AutoPulse allows us to maintain consistent circulation during some of the most critical moments of care,” said Jennifer Funk, service line director for cardiology services at the hospital. “It gives our team the time and stability needed to address the underlying cause of cardiac arrest and improves the chances of survival and recovery.”
Automated CPR devices are increasingly used in hospital and emergency settings, particularly during prolonged resuscitation efforts or complex procedures where uninterrupted chest compressions are difficult to maintain manually.
WRETAC, one of the grant partners, supports emergency medical services and trauma systems throughout western Colorado, helping rural and regional providers access training, equipment and coordinated care resources.
Montrose Regional Health officials said the addition of the AutoPulse NXT reflects the hospital’s ongoing investment in advanced medical technology aimed at improving outcomes for patients in Montrose and surrounding communities.
More information about cardiology services at Montrose Regional Health is available by calling 970-252-2950 or visiting montrosehealth.com/cardiology.
