What to Do About Tiredness From a Heart & Lung Machine?
A heart and lung machine, or cardiopulmonary bypass machine, is a special piece of medical equipment that can temporarily take the place of the heart and/or lungs. The machine provides continuous oxygenated blood flow to the body, removal of carbon dioxide and other toxic components from the blood stream, and maintenance of body temperature. The heart and lung machine can be used in conjunction with heart surgery, or for critically ill patients whose hearts or lungs are damaged or weakened. Being placed on a heart and lung machine puts you at risk for several side effects, including tiredness.
