SANTA MONICA FIRE DEPARTMENT IMPLEMENTS CPAP TREATMENT

DATE: June 19, 2008

CONTACT: Jodi Nevandro, R.N, EMS Nurse Educator, or Capt. Jeff Furrows, Paramedic Coordinator

SANTA MONICA FIRE DEPARTMENT IMPLEMENTS CPAP TREATMENT

On April 1, 2008, the Santa Monica Fire Department became the first paramedic provider in Los Angeles County to offer patients with difficulty breathing a new treatment option.  CPAP, Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, is a non-invasive, safe means of providing breathing support and oxygen for patients experiencing respiratory distress.  CPAP provides a continuous level of positive pressure to the lungs through an airtight mask, keeping collapsing airways open and oxygenated.  This treatment decreases the work of breathing, raises oxygen levels and helps decrease anxiety.  Most patients experience almost immediate relief with the application of CPAP.

 CPAP is commonly used at home by individuals who suffer from sleep apnea.  For paramedics, this tool is used for patients with moderate to severe respiratory distress.  CPAP is useful in patients suffering from congestive heart failure, pulmonary edema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and near drowning.  It is important for the patient to realize that the mask may be uncomfortable or claustrophobic initially but once in place will bring relief.  The sensation is often compared to the feeling of sticking your head out the window of a moving car.

All paramedic units in the city now carry the CPAP device and all fire department paramedics and Emergency Medical Technicians have been trained in its use.  Fire department paramedics are proud to provide this cutting edge treatment to the Santa Monica community.  Any questions on this treatment device may be directed to the Paramedic Coordinator, Capt. Jeff Furrows or the EMS Nurse Educator, Jodi Nevandro R.N.

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This page was last updated on 06/26/08.