Management of the intraaortic balloon pump patient. Pharmacologic considerations.

This article reviews the common pharmacologic agents used in conjunction with the IABP for treatment of LV failure. The complex interaction between the IABP and pharmacologic agents must be carefully monitored to optimize outcome in this critically ill patient group. It is important that ICU nurses be aware of the treatment goals and their rationale, as well as monitored parameters which detect, trend and predict the direction of hemodynamic change. By using these early indicators of hemodynamics, early information can be given to the physician and intervention can be implemented on a timely basis. Early and appropriate intervention can improve outcome in many patients and may ultimately reduce costs.