Define ECMO.
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, a life-support system that provides cardiac and respiratory support.
What does VA-ECMO stand for?
Venoarterial ECMO, which supports both heart and lung function.
True or false: VV-ECMO is used for cardiac support.
FALSE
VV-ECMO is primarily used for respiratory support.
Fill in the blank: VA-ECMO is indicated for _______ failure.
Cardiac
What is the primary purpose of VV-ECMO?
To provide oxygenation and remove carbon dioxide in patients with severe respiratory failure.
True or false: VA-V ECMO combines both VA and VV support.
TRUE
VA-V ECMO is used in complex cases requiring both cardiac and respiratory support.
What is a common complication of ECMO?
Bleeding due to anticoagulation therapy.
Define anticoagulation in the context of ECMO.
The use of medications to prevent blood clots during ECMO support.
What does ECMO circuit consist of?
A pump, oxygenator, and tubing to circulate blood outside the body.
Fill in the blank: Oxygenator is used to _______ blood during ECMO.
Oxygenate
What is the role of the pump in ECMO?
To circulate blood through the ECMO circuit.
True or false: ECMO can be used for short-term support only.
FALSE
ECMO can be used for both short-term and long-term support.
What is a contraindication for ECMO?
Severe irreversible organ failure.
What does weaning from ECMO involve?
Gradually reducing support while monitoring patient stability.
Fill in the blank: Decannulation is the process of _______ the ECMO cannulas.
Removing
What is the significance of monitoring during ECMO?
To assess hemodynamics, oxygenation, and potential complications.
True or false: ECMO is only used in adults.
FALSE
ECMO can be used in pediatric and neonatal patients as well.
What is the duration of ECMO support typically?
It varies, but can range from days to weeks.
Define cannulation in ECMO.
The process of inserting cannulas into blood vessels for ECMO access.
What is the goal of ECMO therapy?
To provide temporary support while treating the underlying cause of failure.
Fill in the blank: Patient selection is critical for _______ success.
ECMO
What is a key factor in ECMO management?
Regular assessment of blood gases and hemodynamics.
What does ECMO team typically include?
Surgeons, intensivists, nurses, and perfusionists.
True or false: ECMO can be initiated in the emergency department.
TRUE
ECMO can be initiated in critical situations before transfer to ICU.
