Prevention of Kinkage of Distal Perfusion Catheter for ECMO Circuit
Care Process & Redesign
National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals
SingHealth
31 December 2024
To prevent vascular complications, such as LL ischemia, by maintaining the patency of Distal Perfusion Catheters (DPCs). The DPC organizer effectively prevents kinks, improves patient safety, and reduces risks associated with ECMO circuits.
Year Submitted: 2024
Published Date: 31 December 2024
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Value Based Care, Functional Outcome, Safe Care, Risk Management, Adverse Outcome Reduction, Preventive Approach
About this Content
Aims
To prevent vascular complications, such as LL ischemia, by maintaining the patency of Distal Perfusion Catheters (DPCs).
Background
Fixation of DPC to ECMO circuits creates acute angles, making them prone to kinks during movement, increasing risks of LL ischemia and fasciotomy.
Methods
Conducted PDCA cycles to develop and evaluate a new medical-grade DPC organizer, improving structural integrity and preventing kinks.
Results
Reduced vascular complications; DPC organizer ensured flexibility without compromising blood flow; adhered to infection prevention standards.
Conclusion
The DPC organizer effectively prevents kinks, improves patient safety, and reduces risks associated with ECMO circuits.
Lessons Learnt
Early involvement of A.L.I.C.E at SGH Campus could have improved outcomes during initial PDCA cycles.
Additional Information
Awarded National Healthcare Innovation & Productivity (NHIP) 2024 – Best Practice (Care Redesign category).
Keywords
DPC, ECMO Circuit, Vascular Safety
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | SingHealth |
Organization(s) Involved | National Heart Centre Singapore |
Platform(s) | National Healthcare Innovation and Productivity Medals |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Nursing |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Cardiology |
Project Lead(s) | Charmaine Ong |
Project Member(s) | Low Hui Ling |
Connect with this contributor!
Jasmine Lee Mei Bao - jasmine.lee.m.b@nhcs.com.sg
Project Attachment
C_919_NHCS_NHIP_2024_Prevention_of_kinking_of_Distal_Perfusion_Catheter_for_ECMO_Circuit.pdf