The document discusses complications that can occur from intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) placement, including limb ischemia, compartment syndrome, aortic dissection, catheter migration, bleeding, and balloon rupture. It notes that most of these complications are life-threatening. It recommends that nurses assess patients receiving IABPs at least every 2 hours for any complications, notify doctors immediately if complications are seen, document accurately, and have a Doppler available.

1. BY,
Frances Alfaro, RN, BSN, CCRN

3. (Reid & Cottrell, 2005)

4. This is
where the
IABP is
placed in the
aorta.

5.  There are many complications that the nurse must be
aware of including:
 Ischemia of the limb
 Compartment syndrome of the extremity being used
 Dissected aorta
 Catheter migration
 Bleeding
 Balloon rupture
 Infection
 Skin breakdown

6.  Most of these complications are life threatening to the
patient.
 The nurse must:
 Assess the patient frequently for any of these
complications, at least every 2 hours.
 Notify the doctor immediately if any complications are
seen.
 Document accurately.
 Have a good working Doppler available.

7.  Reid, M. B., & Cottrell, D. (2005). Nursing care of
patients receiving: Intra-aortic balloon
counterpulsation. Critical Care Nurse. Retrieved from
http://ccn.aacnjournals.org/content/25/5/40.full