Why is anticoagulation required during ECMO? a. Patients are ...

[kwoodring]

Why is anticoagulation required during ECMO?
 
  a. Patients are at risk for DVTs due to im-mobility.
  b. The body tends to activate coagulation when exposed to the nonbiologic surfaces of the cannulas and circuit.
  c. Coagulation is suppressed during ECMO.
  d. Mechanical ventilation during ECMO causes thrombocytopenia.

Question 2

Guidelines for training an ECMO specialist include which of the following? 1. RT must have a bachelor's degree. 2. ECMO equipment training. 3. Physiology of the diseases supported with ECMO. 4. Physiology of coagulation.
 
  a. 1 and 3 only
  b. 1, 2, 3, and 4
  c. 3 and 4 only
  d. 2, 3, and 4 only

[Jane]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B
The blood's natural reaction is to activate coagulation when exposed to the nonbiologic surfaces of the cannulas and circuit. Therefore, anticoagulation is essential prior to cannula insertion and throughout the ECMO course.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D