RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WHIT COMPLICATIONS OF EXTREACORPOREAL CIRCULATION IN CARDIAC SURGERY AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF PERIOPERATIVE NURSING AND PERFUSIONISTS: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Cardiopulmonary bypass is an indispensable tool in cardiac surgery, although it is associated with complications that can increase morbidity and mortality. Thus, the role of the nursing team becomes essential to ensure the safety and quality of care. This study aimed to analyze the risk factors associated with complications arising from cardiopulmonary bypass in cardiac surgery, as well as to highlight the contributions of perioperative nursing and perfusionists in the prevention and management of these complications. This was an integrative review conducted between January and February 2026, with searches in the VHL, CAPES Journal Portal, and Google Scholar. Analysis of the studies identified that factors such as advanced age, comorbidities (hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and renal failure), prolonged CPB time, and surgical complexity are associated with an increased risk of complications, particularly respiratory, renal, neurological, infectious, and hemorrhagic complications. It was also observed that the role of perioperative and perfusion nursing, through continuous monitoring, application of protocols, implementation of the Nursing Process, and early identification of clinical changes, contributes to patient safety and the reduction of complications.  Thus, it is concluded that the early identification of risk factors and the qualified performance of the nursing team are essential for preventing and managing complications related to cardiopulmonary bypass, and that evidence‑based practices, continuous training, and integrated multidisciplinary work contribute to improved clinical outcomes.