ECMO Function and Safety Measures

ECMO, or extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, is a heart-lung bypass machine that supports the heart and lungs when they cannot function properly. The procedure involves placing cannulas in the neck vessels to circulate blood through a machine that removes carbon dioxide and adds oxygen. ECMO is set up at the bedside and requires careful protection of the cannula area. The duration of ECMO varies based on lung growth and pulmonary hypertension treatment. It is not a treatment for CDH but supports lung growth and heart relaxation.

What does ECMO stand for?

• Enhanced Circulatory Management Option

• Electro Cardiovascular Monitoring Output

• External Cardiac Monitoring Operation

• Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation

What is the primary function of ECMO?

• To regulate body temperature

• To measure blood pressure

• To provide oxygen and remove carbon dioxide

• To monitor heart rate

Where are the cannulas placed during the ECMO procedure?

• In the baby's arms

• In the baby's legs

• In the chest cavity

• In the neck vessels on the right side

What happens to the blood in the ECMO machine?

• It is cooled down

• It is filtered for impurities

• It is oxygenated and acid is removed

• It is mixed with nutrients

How much space does the ECMO machine occupy?

• As much as a small table

• As much as a crib

• As much as a chair

• As much as a bed

What is a key safety measure for the ECMO setup?

• Keeping the machine covered

• Keeping the area around the cannulas protected

• Regularly changing the cannulas

• Ensuring the machine is always on

How long can ECMO support last?

• A week to several months

• A few days

• Indefinitely

• A few hours

What is the purpose of ECMO in relation to CDH?

• To cure CDH

• To provide permanent heart support

• To support lung growth and manage pulmonary hypertension

• To replace the need for surgery