Free ECMO Anticoagulation & Hemodynamics in ECMO Questions and Answers

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of anticoagulation during ECMO therapy?

Accepted Answer

To stop clot formation

Answer

To increase oxygen delivery

Answer

To prevent infection

Answer

To reduce heart rate

Question 2

Which lab test is most commonly used to monitor heparin therapy in ECMO?

Accepted Answer

aPTT

Answer

INR

Answer

Lactate

Answer

Creatinine

Question 3

Which hemodynamic parameter indicates the afterload the heart must overcome?

Accepted Answer

SVR

Answer

Cardiac output

Answer

Central venous pressure

Answer

Mean arterial pressure

Question 4

What is the target ACT range for most ECMO protocols using heparin?

Accepted Answer

180–220 seconds

Answer

80–100 seconds

Answer

250–300 seconds

Answer

350–400 seconds

Question 5

Which complication can result from excessive anticoagulation during ECMO?

Accepted Answer

Bleeding

Answer

Stroke

Answer

Hypertension

Answer

Bradycardia

Question 6

Why is maintaining optimal hemodynamics important in ECMO patients?

Accepted Answer

To support end-organ perfusion

Answer

To control oxygen saturation

Answer

To minimize sedative use

Answer

To stabilize glucose levels

Question 7

Which condition is associated with low hemoglobin and persistent bleeding in ECMO?

Accepted Answer

Hemorrhage

Answer

Thrombosis

Answer

Sepsis

Answer

Volume overload

Question 8

What action should be taken if signs of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) appear?

Accepted Answer

Stop heparin and switch to alternative anticoagulant

Answer

Increase heparin dose

Answer

Flush the circuit

Answer

Reduce ECMO flow

Question 9

What is a typical sign of impaired venous return affecting hemodynamics?

Accepted Answer

Jugular vein distension

Answer

Low CVP

Answer

Tachypnea

Answer

Hypothermia