Ventricular Assist Device‐Related Infections And Solid Organ Transplantation

Clinicians must have a heightened suspicion for infection in patients with a VAD, as classic symptoms and signs of infection may be absent. (Low, Strong)

Imaging, including ultrasound, CT, or echocardiography, may be helpful in identifying infected areas and determining extent of VAD‐specific infection. (Moderate, Strong)

It is important to obtain cultures of any potentially infected material evident on exam or imaging in order to establish a microbiologic diagnosis with susceptibility testing to target antimicrobial therapy and minimize excessively broad coverage. (Moderate, Strong)