ECMO Weaning & Decannulation Flashcards
6 cards from real CES practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 ECMO Weaning & Decannulation flashcards as text
Which parameter is most important to assess before attempting VV ECMO weaning?
Answer: Improvement in native lung compliance and gas exchange on reduced ECMO support
Improved native lung gas exchange and compliance on progressively reduced sweep gas and/or flow indicates readiness for VV ECMO weaning.
During a VV ECMO weaning trial, sweep gas flow is typically reduced to assess:
Answer: Native lung's ability to maintain gas exchange independently
Reducing sweep gas (CO2 removal drive) while monitoring SpO2 and PaCO2 tests whether the native lungs can sustain adequate gas exchange.
For VA ECMO weaning, which hemodynamic parameter most reliably indicates cardiac recovery?
Answer: Pulse pressure > 10 mmHg on arterial waveform
Return of pulsatility (pulse pressure >10 mmHg) on the arterial waveform indicates improved native cardiac output during VA ECMO.
Which echocardiographic finding supports readiness for VA ECMO weaning?
Answer: LVEF ≥ 20–25% with VTI > 10 cm
An LVEF ≥ 20–25% with LVOT VTI > 10 cm suggests sufficient cardiac recovery to tolerate a weaning trial.
A VA ECMO weaning trial is typically performed by:
Answer: Gradually reducing ECMO flow while monitoring hemodynamics
Stepwise reduction of VA ECMO flow while monitoring hemodynamics and end-organ perfusion is the standard weaning trial approach.
What is the minimum recommended ACT range during a weaning trial to reduce thrombosis risk without excessive bleeding?
Answer: 160–180 seconds
During weaning trials, maintaining ACT between 160–180 seconds balances circuit thrombosis prevention with hemorrhagic risk.