Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-2021

Academic Year

2020-2021

Abstract

Introduction: The use of Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for COVID-19 patients has proven to have several advantages that advocate for increased use, but current screening protocols have limited its use and availability. The purpose of this study was to evaluate screening criteria for ECMO patients during COVID-19 and determine their appropriateness based on resource availability.

Methods: The population included patients referred for ECMO screening, and were stratified based upon referral outcome, survival length and patient disposition. The referring physicians were contacted to gather information regarding the referral process, the patient’s status prior to referral, and possible referral to another hospital if the patient was declined.

Results: Currently, data regarding the referral patients is still being collected and analyzed. Expectations are that the data will reveal the most common reasons for referral declination, and improved referral patient outcomes when accepted for ECMO treatment. Areas for improvement with the referral process are also being identified with the goal of optimizing and refining the current referral process.

Discussion: The expectation when all data has been analyzed is that it will indicate a need to expand the ECMO screening criteria to allow for increased treatment and improved outcomes for referred COVID-19 patients. An increase in accepted ECMO referrals for COVID-19 patients could lead to better resource allocation for treatment and overall improved patient outcomes.

Language

English

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