posted September 23, 2025

AutoPulse® NXT device provides advanced cardiac care by delivering uninterrupted, high-quality compressions during transport

Thermal, CA – September 23, 2025 – In recognition of World Heart Day on Sept. 27, Mercy Air 18 in Thermal is reinforcing its commitment to heart health and emergency cardiac care by integrating the ZOLL AutoPulse® NXT automated CPR device into its emergency air medical helicopters. The move is part of a nationwide initiative by Mercy Air’s parent company, Air Methods – the leading air medical service provider in the U.S., to implement this life-saving technology across its entire fleet.

World Heart Day is a global reminder for individuals, healthcare professionals, and communities to prioritize cardiovascular health. It also highlights the importance of timely and effective responses to cardiac emergencies. The integration of the AutoPulse NXT device directly enhances the ability to deliver high-quality, consistent care during such critical events.

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

The ZOLL AutoPulse NXT is a cutting-edge tool designed to improve outcomes for cardiac arrest patients. The device delivers consistent, high-quality chest compressions without interruption, allowing medical crews to remain safely restrained during flight and focus on other critical interventions. In just three months since Air Methods’ nationwide rollout, the ZOLL AutoPulse® NXT is already saving lives, with data indicating a 150% increase in safe transports during continuous CPR and nearly 10% more cardiac arrest patients regaining a heartbeat mid-flight.

Unlike manual CPR, which can be exhausting and variable, the AutoPulse NXT provides uninterrupted compressions throughout transport—vital when every second counts. The device is especially impactful during rapid transports to PCI-capable hospitals or ECMO centers, where early and continuous CPR can make the difference between life and death.

“Since integrating the AutoPulse NXT, it has been a game-changer for both our crews and our patients,” said Zach Adams, Mercy Air 18 Flight Nurse. “When using the AutoPulse NXT device, the clinical team can focus on addressing the underlying causes of cardiac arrest rather than the physical demands of manual compressions.”

Mercy Air provides 24/7/365 critical care air transport, serving as a flying intensive care unit that supports first responders and hospitals across the region. Their highly trained teams respond to a wide range of emergencies, including cardiac arrests, strokes, traumatic injuries, burns, and other life-threatening conditions.

Dedicated to patient access and affordability, Mercy Air is in-network with most major health insurance providers and offers a robust Patient Advocacy Program to assist all patients, regardless of insurance status.