Which of the following may cause low flows on ECMO?

Low flows on ECMO can arise from several factors, with inadequate volume or chattering being a primary cause. Inadequate volume refers to not having enough blood being pumped into the ECMO circuit, which can result from insufficient blood return from the patient or a lack of priming volume in the circuit itself. Chattering, on the other hand, refers to a situation where there are fluctuations in the flow due to any obstruction or turbulence within the ECMO circuit, which can lead to intermittent flow and overall lower average flows.

Thus, addressing issues related to inadequate volume or chattering is essential for maintaining optimal flow rates in ECMO, as fluctuations in the circuit can severely affect gas exchange and overall patient stability. Ensuring that these two factors are well-managed is crucial for efficient ECMO support.