CCP Oxygenator & Pump Maintenance 2

Question 1

Which parameter is most commonly used to assess oxygenator gas transfer efficiency during cardiopulmonary bypass?

Accepted Answer

Arterial oxygen saturation and PaO2

Answer

Arterial oxygen saturation and PaO2 directly reflect the oxygenator's ability to transfer oxygen into the blood.

Question 2

During CPB, a sudden increase in oxygenator inlet-to-outlet pressure gradient with no change in flow rate most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Oxygenator fiber bundle clotting or thrombosis

Answer

Progressive clotting within the hollow-fiber bundle increases resistance and raises the transmembrane pressure gradient.

Question 3

What is the primary function of the heat exchanger integrated within a modern membrane oxygenator?

Accepted Answer

Regulating patient blood temperature during bypass

Answer

The heat exchanger uses countercurrent water flow to warm or cool blood to achieve target patient temperature.

Question 4

A perfusionist notices plasma breakthrough (wet gas side) on a hollow-fiber oxygenator 4 hours into a complex case. The BEST immediate action is:

Accepted Answer

Prepare to change the oxygenator emergently

Answer

Plasma breakthrough compromises gas exchange and risks contamination; the oxygenator must be replaced as soon as safely possible.

Question 5

Which design feature of microporous polypropylene hollow fibers makes them susceptible to plasma leakage over time?

Accepted Answer

Open pores that can be wetted by plasma proteins under prolonged exposure

Answer

Plasma proteins gradually wet microporous polypropylene walls, allowing liquid plasma to permeate from blood to gas side.

(CCP) Certified Clinical Perfusionist Practice Test