Neuromonitoring Techniques in ECMO

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a critical life-support therapy for patients with severe cardiac and/or respiratory failure, but it carries a significant risk of neurological complications. This narrative review evaluates neuromonitoring techniques, including electroencephalography, near-infrared spectroscopy, transcranial Doppler, somatosensory evoked potentials, and pupillometry, highlighting their clinical utility, limitations, and relevance for nursing practice. Findings indicate that a multimodal neuromonitoring approach improves early detection and management of neurological deterioration, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes. Standardized protocols and specialized nursing training are essential to optimizing neuromonitoring in ECMO patients.