The Role of Simulation in Starting a New ECMO Program

Simulation can play a pivotal role in ensuring the success of a new ECMO program, regardless of how small the projected volume may be. Partnering with a high-volume ECMO center with simulation experience may help to accelerate the start of a new ECMO program, as select team members undergo intense, guided training to then become the trainers of the larger novice group. Introducing a conceptual framework about ECMO-related problems for learners early in their training could help to solidify the lessons learned in simulation. While starting a new clinical ECMO program is challenging, simulation is a unique tool to allow inexperienced health care providers to gain ECMO experience and apply their knowledge prior to taking care of the first patient.