Efficacy of theories related to extracorporeal life support specialist assisting client during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

As the wave of respiratory and cardiac failure due to an unprecedented pandemic hits our medical centers, extracorporeal life support (ECLS) specialists have become more involved with long term intensive care; our relationship to patient care has been altered. ECLS and Ventricular Assist Devices (VAD) have become essential tools in the care of critically ill patients with respiratory failure, post-cardiotomy failure, and viral infection. During this unprecedented pandemic, there have been many advancements and rapid growth towards options of long term mechanical cardiopulmonary support, especially in the adult patient population. ECLS cases reported to the International Extracorporeal Life Support Organization registry, showing >73,000 patients. With the growth of this patient population and the changing “ECLS specialist-Patient” family relationship, it is essential to explore handling the grief of the patients. Individuals dealing with pain demonstrate a variety of reactions as they adjust to a life without a loved one. This review examines the efficacy of theories related to ECLS specialists, assisting a client, and families grieving the loss of a significant person in their life.