Heart Failure & LVAD Basics
What does LVAD stand for?
Left Ventricular Assist Device
What does MAP stand for?
Mean Arterial Pressure
How often should driveline dressings typically be changed?
Daily/PRN
What should you avoid during driveline care?
Contaminating the site or pulling the driveline
What is the name of the LVAD model highlighted in this presentation?
HeartMate 3
What stage of heart failure typically leads to LVAD consideration?
End-stage or advanced heart failure
What is the ideal MAP range for LVAD patients?
70-90mmHG
What personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn during an LVAD dressing change?
Gloves, mask, and sometimes gown.
What vital sign is often absent in LVAD patients?
palpable pulse
True or False: The HeartMate 3 includes a pulse generator.
False – it produces continuous flow, not a pulse
Name one common indication for LVAD implantation.
Bridge to transplant.
Why can’t standard automated BP cuffs be used on many LVAD patients?
They often lack a palpable pulse due to continuous flow.
What is the first step before starting a dressing change on an LVAD patient?
Hand hygiene and gathering all sterile supplies
Why must you avoid excessive chest compression?
It can dislodge the device or cause internal bleeding
What is the function of the controller in the HeartMate 3 system?
It manages and monitors pump function and alarms
True or False: The LVAD replaces the heart's pumping action.
False – it assists but does not replace it
What tool is used to detect MAP in LVAD patients?
Doppler ultrasound
What solution is commonly used to clean the driveline site?
Chlorhexidine gluconate unless contraindicated
Name a sign of poor perfusion in an LVAD patient.
Cool extremities, altered mental status, low cap refill
Name one power source that can be used with the HeartMate 3.
Batteries or Plug into wall
What part of the heart does the LVAD assist?
Left ventricle to the aorta
Walk through the steps to measure MAP using Doppler.
Manual cuff >120 mmHg → deflate slowly → Doppler over brachial → first audible sound = MAP
Name two key steps to maintain sterility during the dressing change
Use sterile gloves and field, avoid touching non-sterile surfaces, use sterile technique throughout
What is a key infection risk area on an LVAD patient?
The driveline exit site
What action should you take if the controller displays a red heart alarm?
Call LVAD coordinator, check connections, assess patient immediately.