LVADS Flashcards
How would you obtain a BP in an LVAD patient?
You will likely not be able to obtain a SBP/DBP. Instead you will obtain a MAP by;
- using a doppler to auscultate radial artery blood flow
- inflate the cuff until the artery is occluded and no sound is heard.
- deflate the cuff until a constant sound returns
- note the mmHg at hich this sound is heard this is the MAP.
How would you determine if the pump is running?
Auscultate over the epigastrium for a continuous mechanical noise
What is a suction event?
When the LV collapses around the device inflow line.
What are some causes of a suction event?
- hypovolemia
- pump speed is too high
- arrhythmias
What are some causes of bleeding in LVAD patients?
- anticoagulant therapy
2. acquired Von Willebrand’s disease.
What percent of patients will have a CVA?
8-10% (Pratt, et al, p. 164)
What is a pump specific sign of thrombosis?
Elevated power and floe readings
What are some patient specific signs of thrombosis?
- hemolysis
- end organ hypoperfusion
- heart failure
- thromboembolism
What is the most frequent adverse event in LVAD patients?
Bleeding (Pratt, et al, 2014)
1. early bleeding requiring surgery seen in 26% of patients
2.