Have a complete visual of the circuit: Insertion points, cannulas, tubings, controller, etc.

Check the fixations of the cannulas: Sutures and eventual additional fixation devices.

Assess the length of the tubing: It does not always facilitate mobilization in the bed. To prevent any adverse events, move the ECMO cart if necessary to avoid any kinks or tension while turning the patient to prevent bed sores or wash him.

Evaluate the level of consciousness of the patient: If the patient is responsive, the nurse should explain how he or she is going to be mobilized, what is expected of him or her, and assess if he or she needs analgesics before starting the process. If the patient is sedated but reacts during care, make sure to anticipate the need for extra sedatives or analgesics.

Have enough caregivers to help: For a “normal” ICU patient, usually two or three people are needed. When a patient on ECMO is mobilized, an additional person (at least) is necessary to check tubings and the pump controller. If the patient is overweight or very unstable, more caregivers can be involved. The key is to assign a specific task to each team member, for example, one person is in charge of the head, another will be in charge of washing the back of the patient, a third one will hold the ECMO tubing and check the controller.