Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) - UH EMS

CARDIAC ARREST/ ACLS
Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)
B
A
P
M
Ventricular assist device patients (VAD) are special care situations. Unless these patients
are in cardiac arrest they need to be transported to their VAD implantation center. Local or
regional hospitals are not equipped to handle these patients.
UNIVERSAL PATIENT CARE PROTOCOL
EMT
Advanced
Paramedic
MED CONTROL
B
A
P
M
Contact Appropriate VAD team
Cleveland Clinic
Determine if VAD is functioning
Auscultate chest and upper abdominal
quadrants – Continuous Humming sound =
pump is working
Many pumps are non-pulsatile;
patient may not have palpable
pulses, measurable BP, or Pulse
Oximetery.
Use other indicators of perfusion
such as skin signs, mental
status, and Capnography.
216-444-2200 Pager 23400
University Hospital
216-207-7244 Pager 32343
The Patient should have a companion
(Family member, friend, caretaker, etc) who
is knowledgeable in the function of the VAD.
Utilize this resource regarding specifics of
each type of VAD system.
Keep the companion with the patient
Keep all equipment with the patient
Not Functioning / Alarming
Functioning
Do not ever shut off
Find Accompanying Instructions
for Device
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Page / call VAD team
Check that all Wires / Leads
Connected to Controller / Power
Check Power Sources
Change Power Sources (Only
change 1 battery at a time)
Attempt Re-start or Start in
Backup Mode
Switch to Back-Up Controller (If
Instructed by VAD Coordinator)
IF unable to Maintain Pump
Operation
Follow VAD team instructions
Patient Unstable
Patient Stable
Treat Per Standard
ACLS Protocols
Treat Per Standard
Medical Protocols
Pacing OK
Defibrillation OK
ACLS drugs OK
Chest Compressions
only as ABSOLUTE
last resort
Treat for Cardiogenic Shock
Rapid Transport
TRANSPORT to appropriate facility (Air Transport OK for VAD Patients)
CONTACT receiving facility
CONSULT Medical Direction where indicated
UH Protocols Chapter 4 – ACLS Protocols
29

Download Report