What should a paramedic do in the event of an IABP power failure?

In the event of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) power failure, manually pumping the balloon every 3-5 minutes is an important intervention. The IABP's primary function is to assist the heart by reducing cardiac workload and augmenting coronary perfusion during diastole. When there is a power failure, the automated function of the balloon pump is compromised, potentially placing the patient at risk for hemodynamic instability.

Manually inflating and deflating the balloon ensures that there is still some degree of support to the patient's circulation even though the mechanical device is not functioning. This manual intervention can help maintain some level of cardiac assistance until the device can be repaired or replaced, or until alternative support measures can be implemented.

Activating the backup battery would also be an important step, but it may not immediately restore function if the battery is low or if there is an additional malfunction. Therefore, manual pumping serves as an immediate response to maintain critical support while assessing the situation further.