Monday, June 16, 2014

Ventricular Assist Devices

A ventricular assist device (VAD) is a mechanical pump that’s used to support heart
function and blood flow in people who have weakened hearts. There are two main types of VADs: Left ventricular assist devices (LVAD) and Bi-ventricular assist devices.  Regardless of the type of VAD that the patient has the assessment, treatment, and destination decision is vastly different for the VAD patient.

Question: You are called to the home of a 50 yo patient who states he feels weak and dizzy. The patient states that he received a VAD two months ago.  Your exam reveals the following: No radial or carotid pulse and no blood pressure.  Despite these finding the patient is talking to you. What does this mean? What do you do?

Follow the links below to learn more about VADS:

VAD info


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