Quality Improvement Developments Following Pediatric Resuscitation and VA Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support due to a Massive Intentional Antidepressant Overdose

ABSTRACT

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic caused a significant increase in suicide attempts in teenagers. Fluoxetine and Wellbutrin have been prescribed to adolescents to treat depression. Overdosing on these medications can cause seizures, arrhythmias, and cardiogenic shock. We report on a patient who presented with a normal physical assessment following a massive antidepressant drug overdose, but quickly deteriorated, and required VA Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO). Gaps identified in this case prompted us to assess our ECPR protocol, which led to areas for quality improvement. Case Review A teenage male presented to our ED after intentionally ingesting Fluoxetine, Wellbutrin, and Hydroxyprogesterone. Fluid boluses, vasopressor infusions and multiple doses of epinephrine were administered, but his hemodynamic instability persisted. Concerns regarding cannulation, team activation and coordination of care during ECPR were areas identified as requiring improvement during a case review. The team was activated and cannulated the patient for VA ECMO. At hour eighty-five, he was hemodynamically stable, including normal sinus rhythm and resolved hypotension, and was removed from ECMO. He was successfully extubated, weaned to room air, and discharged with plans for outpatient therapy. Quality Improvement An updated process for notifying team members for ECPR cannulation was implemented. Simulation scenarios, which are held quarterly, were developed, with clearly delineated roles, and emphasis on timing of chest compressions with minimal pauses during cannulation. Annual ECPR web-based education is mandatory. Improvements in the time to cannulation and team member interactions were noted during subsequent ECPR scenarios. Timing of team notification and cannulations continues to be tracked.