From left, Roger Wong, Respiratory Therapist at MGH; Lindsay Smith, Clinical Education Specialist at Baxter; Moray Wright-Whyte, Physiotherapist at MGH; Kevin Duong, Physiotherapist at MGH; Tracey Monahan, Senior Respiratory Therapist and Certified Respiratory Educator Clinical Coordinator at MGH with the Synclara cough system.
By: Regan Lalonde, Communications and Community Engagement Coordinator, Michael Garron Hospital
Michael Garron Hospital (MGH) is the first hospital in Ontario to implement the newest model of the Synclara cough system, which is manufactured by Baxter. This state-of-the-art equipment supports patients in MGH's Long Stay Critical Care Program (LSP).
Used by respiratory therapists and physiotherapists, this first-class equipment features modern technologies that improve care experiences for both patients and providers. It replaces an older cough assist machine used at MGH.
The Synclara cough system is a non-invasive therapy that simulates coughing for patients living with a condition that makes coughing difficult. These conditions include spinal cord injuries or neuromuscular diseases like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis.
This innovative technology was designed to work with patients' bodies to deliver a more individualized treatment.
Features of the Synclara cough system include:
Easy-to-use touch screen
Small, lightweight and battery or wall powered making it easy to move
Positive Airway Pressure (PAP) which keeps the patient's airways open between cough cycles, while their lungs rest
Ability to sense how the patient is breathing and automatically adjusts the cough cycle to their breathing rhythm
Programmable cycles that make it easy for the care team to tailor the patient's therapy to their individual needs
“This machine will enhance our capacity to provide high-quality care by leveraging the latest technology on the market, ensuring that our patients receive the most effective and efficient treatment available," says Tracey Monahan, Senior Respiratory Therapist and Certified Respiratory Educator Clinical Coordinator at MGH.
The implementation of the Synclara cough system was made possible through funding designated to MGH's LSP, a three-year pilot initiative designed to improve overall ICU capacity in Toronto and the quality of care for prolonged critically ill patients. The initiative is funded by the Ministry of Health and supported by Critical Care Services Ontario and Ontario Health.
“Thank you to our staff and leaders who have supported the implementation of and training on the Synclara cough system," says Kevin Edmonson, Vice President of Clinical Programs and Quality. “We're thrilled to be the first hospital in Ontario to introduce this system."