Why is infection control a significant concern in ECMO patients?

Infection control is a significant concern in ECMO patients primarily due to the presence of indwelling catheters. These catheters are essential for ECMO as they are used to access the patient's vascular system for blood withdrawal and return, and they can serve as potential gateways for pathogens. The longer these catheters remain in place, the greater the risk of catheter-related bloodstream infections (CRBSIs) due to factors such as biofilm formation on the catheter surfaces, which can harbor bacteria.

In addition, ECMO patients often have compromised immune systems as a result of their underlying conditions, surgical interventions, or prolonged hospitalization, which further increases their susceptibility to infections. Effective infection control measures, including rigorous hand hygiene, aseptic techniques during catheter insertion and maintenance, and regular monitoring for signs of infection, are crucial in managing these risks and improving patient outcomes.