Directors okay purchase of CPR system

By Melinda L. Lucas

Shackelford County Hospital District directors decided to purchase a Lucas 3 chest compression system for the ambulance service at Monday night’s meeting, but opted to continue to look for grants for the more expensive self-lifting Stryker stretcher proposed by EMS director Tina Ulbrich.

The CPR machine, which can be used both on-scene and in-transport, is available temporarily at a reduced price because of a COVID-19 “Disaster Purchasing Program.”

Ulbrich reported that she had been unable to find any grant funding to cover the equipment, which with power supply, extra batter, accessories, and protection plan, comes in at just under $20,000.

She and hospital administrator Jera Fairley are still looking for grants to help pay for the Stryker self-lifting stretcher, which is close to $56,000.

“Right now, we have to call the fire department or law enforcement to help us load whenever a patient is heavy,” said Ulbrich. “This would reduce the possibility of injuries to our employees.”

The purchase was approved on a motion by Myra Hise, seconded by Chris Beard.

Fairley added that since the district’s status as a Foundation has finally been re-approved after a seven-year lapse, more types of grant funding should become available.

Ulbrich thanked the three directors who were able to meet the new EMS medical director, Dr. Donald Phillips, at a breakfast last Friday morning. All ambulance personnel were able to attend except for one person, she said.

Ulbrich also reported that the station’s generator failed to come on during a power outage Saturday.  

A mechanic from Warren Cat was scheduled to come on Tuesday.

Other Business

•The directors approved the transfer of funds totaling $515,000, which should cover district expenses through the end of the budget year.

•District secretary Regina Whitt is working with Cheri Hawkins to set up the board election, which was postponed from May to November.