You should be able to:
- Describe the structure of the intra-aortic balloon pump
- Describe the role of balloon counterpulsation stating ideal timings and mechanisms used to trigger
- Explain how counterpulsation results in beneficial physiological effects and describe its effect on the arterial waveform
- Summarise the indications and contraindications for IABP insertion
- Summarise the complications associated with IABP use
- Describe the care of a patient with an IABP in situ
- Describe common issues that can occur with balloon counterpulsation timing and how these can be identified from the pressure waveform
- Explain the weaning process for withdrawal of IABP support