What does MEP mean in THERAPY

A Medical Emergency Perfusionist (MEP) is a medical specialist who works in the field of extracorporeal life support. MEPs use mechanical devices to preserve, sustain and replace various physiological functions for patients with acute or chronic illnesses.

During medical emergencies, MEPs use their expertise and specialized knowledge to help save lives by maintaining normal physiological processes. They utilize mechanical devices such as ventricular assist devices and extra corporeal membranous oxygenators to provide vital lifesaving functions outside of the body.

MEPs receive extensive training in order to be able to properly operate the equipment used for extracorporeal life support and provide optimal care for critically ill or injured patients. This includes completing an accredited perfusion program with clinical rounds that last from two to three years depending on the program requirements.

MEPs typically work in hospitals and other healthcare facilities in order to provide life-saving interventions during critical times. Additionally, they may also be called upon for urgent transport services, where they may transport critically ill or injured patients from one facility to another for emergency treatment.

In addition to operating machines used in extracorporeal life support, MEPs also provide direct patient care such as administering medications, providing wound management, adjusting settings on ventilator systems, as well as monitoring patient progress with clinical exams and laboratory tests throughout treatment days.