Which condition is a cause of worsening hypercarbia on ECMO?

A disconnected gas line is indeed a cause of worsening hypercarbia on ECMO. In ECMO, gas exchange is critical, as the system is designed to remove carbon dioxide (CO2) while delivering oxygen to the patient. If the gas line is disconnected, the blood would not be properly oxygenated, nor would it allow for the efficient removal of CO2 from the bloodstream.

When the gas lines are functioning correctly, they allow for the exchange of gases; however, if this connection is lost, the system cannot adequately ventilate the blood, leading to an accumulation of CO2 in the patient's body, a condition known as hypercarbia. Therefore, ensuring that the gas lines are securely connected and functioning properly is crucial for maintaining optimal blood gas levels in patients on ECMO.

In contrast, increased oxygen flow may not directly correlate with worsening hypercarbia; rather, it could improve oxygenation without necessarily affecting CO2 levels negatively. Correct cannula positioning is important for effective blood flow around the circuit but does not directly lead to hypercarbia. Patient movement is also not typically a direct contributor to hypercarbia unless it influences the ECMO circuit's integrity or performance.