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Medical and nursing care of the child on mechanical circulatory support

Steven M Schwartz1, Alicia Schmidt

  • 1The Labatt Family Heart Centre, Departments of Critical Care Medicine and Paediatrics, University of Toronto, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada. steven.schwartz@sickkids.ca

Pediatric Critical Care Medicine : a Journal of the Society of Critical Care Medicine and the World Federation of Pediatric Intensive and Critical Care Societies
|June 6, 2013
PubMed

Insights

This review details the medical and nursing care for children on mechanical circulatory support (MCS). Key aspects include organ management, infection control, and ethical considerations for optimal patient outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care
  • Extracorporeal Life Support Organization

Background:

  • Mechanical circulatory support (MCS) is a critical intervention for critically ill children with cardiac conditions.
  • Managing these young patients requires a multidisciplinary approach, addressing complex physiological needs.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the comprehensive medical and nursing care for pediatric patients requiring mechanical circulatory support.
  • To align with the guidelines set forth by the Pediatric Cardiac Intensive Care Society/Extracorporeal Life Support Organization Joint Statement.

Main Methods:

  • A review of current medical and nursing care practices for children on MCS.
  • Integration of practical experience with supporting evidence and discussion of existing controversies.

Main Results:

  • The review covers essential aspects of care including assessment, monitoring, and management of cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, and fluid balance.
  • It also addresses infection prevention, neurological and nutritional support, and physical and psychological care.

Conclusions:

  • Unique medical and nursing considerations are vital for patients on mechanical circulatory support.
  • Prioritizing cardiac recovery and preventing non-cardiac organ damage are crucial for ensuring quality survival post-MCS.
Abstract

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