CVP Patient Safety and Equipment

Question 1

What is the most critical safety check before initiating cardiopulmonary bypass?

Accepted Answer

Verifying adequate anticoagulation (ACT) and ensuring the circuit is properly assembled and de-aired

Answer

Checking the room temperature

Answer

Verifying the surgeons schedule

Answer

Confirming insurance coverage

Question 2

What is the primary risk of inadequate de-airing of the bypass circuit?

Accepted Answer

Air embolism to the patient causing stroke or organ damage

Answer

Equipment malfunction

Answer

Blood contamination

Answer

Excessive bleeding

Question 3

What should a perfusionist do if the oxygenator fails during bypass?

Accepted Answer

Immediately switch to a backup oxygenator while maintaining circulation

Answer

Stop the bypass machine completely

Answer

Wait for the oxygenator to recover

Answer

Increase the flow rate to compensate

Question 4

What is the purpose of the level detector on the venous reservoir?

Accepted Answer

To alarm when blood level drops dangerously low, preventing air from entering the pump

Answer

To measure the total blood volume

Answer

To monitor drug concentrations

Answer

To detect blood clots

Question 5

What is the significance of checking for hemolysis during bypass?

Accepted Answer

Elevated free hemoglobin indicates red blood cell destruction that can cause kidney damage

Answer

Hemolysis is always beneficial

Answer

It indicates adequate anticoagulation

Answer

It shows the oxygenator is working properly

Question 6

What records must a perfusionist maintain during bypass?

Accepted Answer

Comprehensive records of all pump parameters, medications, blood gases, and events throughout the procedure

Answer

Only the start and stop times

Answer

Just the surgeons name and date

Answer

No records are required during bypass