For patients who have cardiac dysfunction, when is ECLS generally performed?

A. in the postoperative period when the patient is receiving high-frequency ventilation
B. in the postoperative period when the patient cannot be supported on HFV with protective lung strategies
C. in the postoperative period when the patient cannot be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass
D. anytime when the rigid ECLS criteria for cardiac patients are met

ANS: C
A. Incorrect response: See explanation C.
B. Incorrect response: See explanation C.
C. Correct response: For cardiac patients, ECLS criteria remain subjective. Most cardiac ECLS is performed in the postoperative period, when the patient cannot be weaned from cardiopulmonary bypass, or when assistance is needed for poor ventricular performance. Patients with severe myocarditis may be supported with ECLS until the condition resolves or until transplantation is possible.
D. Incorrect response: See explanation C.