Many life-saving therapies come with an inherent risk of infection. For example, central lines can result in Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs), while endotracheal tubes (ETTs) can lead to Ventilator-Associated Pneumonia (VAP). Despite these risks, these interventions are often critical for patient survival, providing essential access for medications and fluids and enabling life-sustaining mechanical ventilation for patients in respiratory failure.

 

Similarly, Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), a vital therapy for patients with severe cardiac or respiratory failure, carries its own risk of ECMO-related bloodstream infections. However, ECMO remains an indispensable tool in critical care, offering life-saving support by temporarily taking over the functions of the heart and lungs when these organs are too weak or damaged to perform on their own.

ECMO Infection Prevention Challenges

The challenge with ECMO-related infections, however, is compounded by a significant gap in standardized practices. Unlike other critical care interventions, there are no universally accepted procedures for ECMO infection prevention, leaving healthcare providers without clear guidelines on how to effectively prevent ECMO-related bloodstream infections.

 

Further complicating matters, ECMO line-related infections are not specifically tracked through the National Healthcare Safety Network (NHSN). This oversight creates a dangerous blind spot, making it all too easy for infection prevention teams to overlook potential problems in this critical area of care.

A Case Study in Innovation

Recognizing this oversight, and in response to an alarming surge in ECMO infections, one hospital took decisive action. They developed an ECMO-specific cannula site care bundle, adapting existing strategies for preventing Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections (CLABSIs) to their Cardiothoracic Intensive Care Unit (CTICU).

 

This innovative bundle included:

 

• Standardizing the use of antimicrobial dressings
• Implementing rigorous aseptic techniques
• Ensuring proper cannula securement
• Instituting daily antimicrobial patient bathing
• Addressing environmental factors, such as preventing cannulas from touching the floor

 

The hospital’s approach didn’t stop at implementation. In addition, they tracked compliance with the bundle and conducted weekly infection prevention rounds, ensuring consistent adherence to the new protocols.

Remarkable Results & A Call To Action

The outcome was nothing short of extraordinary. At this facility, ECMO-related infections peaked at 36% in October 2021. However, by June 2022, the ECMO infection rate had plummeted to 0%. This remarkable reduction was sustained for seven consecutive months, highlighting the potential impact of targeted, well-implemented infection prevention strategies in ECMO care.

 

While the success of this case study is inspiring, many hospitals may find themselves wondering how to replicate these results. Developing and implementing ECMO-specific infection prevention protocols requires specialized knowledge, resources, and experience that not all institutions readily have at their disposal.

Transforming ECMO Outcomes

At Innovative ECMO Concepts (IEC), we understand the unique challenges hospitals face in establishing and maintaining effective ECMO programs. Our expertise extends to every aspect of ECMO care, from major program development to crucial details that are often overlooked, such as infection prevention strategies.

 

In addition to staying abreast of the latest developments in ECMO care, IEC can also help develop and maintain robust ECMO infection prevention protocols through:

 

• Customized Protocol Development: IEC assists institutions in creating ECMO-specific infection prevention protocols tailored to their unique needs and resources.
• Staff Training and Education: The expert team at IEC provides comprehensive training on the latest infection prevention techniques specific to ECMO care.
• Implementation Support: IEC offers guidance on implementing new protocols, including strategies for ensuring staff compliance and addressing potential challenges.
• Ongoing Monitoring and Optimization: Services include assistance with tracking protocol adherence and outcomes, allowing for continuous improvement of ECMO infection prevention strategies.

 

By partnering with IEC, hospitals can bridge the gap in standardized ECMO infection prevention procedures, paving the way for dramatic improvements in patient outcomes, mirroring the remarkable results seen in the case study.