posted June 10, 2025

Device provides advanced cardiac care and status helps get patients to hospitals faster

PASO ROBLES, CA – June 10, 2025 – Mercy Air 34 in Paso Robles announced the integration of the ZOLL AutoPulse® NXT automated CPR device into its air medical transport operations and achieved first responder status for the region—key milestones that significantly enhance patient care and emergency response capabilities.

The AutoPulse NXT device delivers consistent, high-quality chest compressions without interruption, enabling the crew to remain safely restrained during flight. Unlike manual CPR, which can be exhausting and inconsistent, the AutoPulse NXT ensures seamless compressions throughout transport, supporting better outcomes for cardiac patients.

“Performing high-quality CPR during air transport used to require tough choices between patient care and crew safety,” said Dr. Stephanie Queen, DNP, MBA, RN, Chief Nursing Officer and Senior Vice President at Air Methods. “This device eliminates that trade-off, allowing us to deliver lifesaving care without compromising safety.”

Air Methods, the nation’s leading air medical service provider and parent company of Mercy Air, rolled out the AutoPulse NXT device across its entire community-based fleet in May, reinforcing its commitment to innovation and patient care. Each year, more than 600 patients transported by Air Methods require CPR. With the AutoPulse NXT device, clinicians can provide uninterrupted compressions during flights, better supporting standards for advanced cardiac care, including ECMO and rapid transport to PCI-capable hospitals.

“Adding the AutoPulse NXT is a game-changer for both our crews and our patients. We’ve used it at least a handful of times since integrating it,” said Mercy Air 34 Clinical Base Lead and Flight Paramedic Jeffrey Hagins. “It ensures CPR is continuous, safer, and more effective during flight.”

In addition to this technological upgrade, Mercy Air 34 has secured first responder designation in central California. This status enables the air medical team to identify a safe landing zone and initiate immediate patient care, eliminating the need to wait for ground responders to secure the area—saving crucial minutes in response times.

“Seconds matter when it comes to saving lives,” said Hagins. “Now, we can reach patients in half the time and start lifesaving treatment right away.”

To achieve first responder status, Mercy Air demonstrated the need for faster response, developed protocols for safe landings in unsecured areas, and trained pilots and flight crews in landing zone safety. Ground responders were also trained on safely approaching active helicopter scenes, particularly in rural areas with long ground transport times.

“This designation is a point of pride for our Mercy Air team,” Hagins added. “We’re deeply connected to the communities we serve and dedicated to providing the highest level of care.”

Mercy Air 34 continues to coordinate closely with ground responders and 911 dispatch services to ensure safe, efficient emergency care. On every transport, the team carries blood products and can administer them on scene or in flight, further improving outcomes for critically ill patients. The program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Medical Transport Systems (CAMTS), reflecting its commitment to the highest standards of safety and clinical care.

Mercy Air is in-network with most major insurance providers and has a patient advocacy program that works with all patients—regardless of insurance status—to ensure emergency air medical services remain accessible and affordable for everyone in the community.