CCP Oxygenator & Pump Maintenance 3

Question 1

The rated flow capacity of a centrifugal pump head is primarily determined by:

Accepted Answer

Motor speed in RPM and impeller/cone geometry

Answer

Centrifugal pump output depends on impeller or cone design and rotational speed, which together generate flow against afterload.

Question 2

Unlike roller pumps, centrifugal pumps are considered 'afterload sensitive' because:

Accepted Answer

Flow decreases if downstream resistance increases without RPM compensation

Answer

Centrifugal pumps deliver less flow as arterial resistance rises unless the operator increases RPM to compensate.

Question 3

Roller pump occlusion is considered correct when:

Accepted Answer

A fluid column in the arterial line drops 1 cm per minute with rollers stopped

Answer

The standard occlusion test uses a fluid column drop rate of ~1 cm/min to balance spallation risk against regurgitation.

Question 4

Spallation from roller pump tubing is MOST reduced by:

Accepted Answer

Using a slightly under-occluded roller setting with biocompatible tubing

Answer

Mild under-occlusion minimizes repetitive compression trauma that sheds tubing particulates into the circuit.

Question 5

During a ventricular assist procedure using a centrifugal pump, a sudden drop in flow with constant RPM and decreasing inlet pressure most likely indicates:

Accepted Answer

Venous line obstruction or hypovolemia causing inlet cavitation

Answer

Negative inlet pressure with flow reduction signals inadequate venous return or obstruction, causing the pump to cavitate.

(CCP) Certified Clinical Perfusionist Practice Test

(CCP) Certified Clinical Perfusionist Practice Test

CCP Oxygenator & Pump Maintenance 3