Visitation and the number of visitors varies between each hospital, therefore we advise to always call and confirm how many visitors can attend and the best time to do so. Our nurse’s first priority is to ensure your loved one is receiving the best care possible, so with this, we ask that families and carers nominate a representative to update all family and friends. This will assist with the amount of time our team are taking phone calls.

We understand that family and friends might want to help and assist where possible. Therefore, we welcome you to bring anything from home like pictures, play their favourite music, massage their legs or arms, or read and tell stories to your loved one. It’s also good to touch base with the nurse to ensure your loved one is getting enough rest.

The ECMO specialist team will visit your loved one daily as part of their ward round, you are welcome to ask for an update on your loved ones condition once this is complete.

At times, the team looking after your loved one will organise a ‘family meeting’, the purpose of this meeting is to discuss the progress of your loved one and talk through any problems or concerns there may be. Family are also welcome to initiate these meetings, which also could include a palliative care specialist, family and or friends of your choosing, and a chaplain. Family meetings can be held as often as you like, we recommend discussing this with the bedside nurse as the first step.

Who will care for my loved one whilst they are on ECMO?

ECMO care is provided in the ICU to ensure that your loved is being looked after 24 hours a day by a multi-disciplinary team of specialised medical, nursing and allied health staff.

How long will my loved one be on ECMO for?

The amount of time someone is on ECMO varies from a few days to a few weeks and sometimes even for a few months. Patients are monitored and assessed continuously, with the aim of taking them off ECMO as soon as it is safe to do so.