Heart Failure and the Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD)

Standard CAB approach
  • For unresponsive patients our usual assessment begins with the simultaneous assessment of breathing and circulatory assessment, or pulse check
  • However, no pulse will be palpable so standard American Heart Association "CAB" assessment will vary
  • Assess for alternate signs of circulation
    • Mental status
    • Capillary refill
    • Skin color
    • Cyanosis