Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has a long history and has evolved over time in clinical application. A new era of ECMO application began at the turn of the millenium during the H1N1 flu epidemic and with the advent of a new technology and protocols to prevent complications. The expansion of the application of ECMO became more pronounced in 2020 with the emergence of the pandemic caused by the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) corona virus. In 2020 , there was a need for rapid and efficient training of a large number of additional ECMO technicians, such as nurses, perfusionists and doctors. Altrough currently there are still no clear guidelines in action regarding the powers and responsibilities of medical staff treating patients on ECMO, an urgent need has been identified. Traditinally, treatment of patients on ECMO is performed by multidisciplinary team that includes a combination of physicians, surgeons, transport specialists, nurses, and/ or perfusionists. The patient’s needs are addressed by actions in which all team members work together and it is vitally important that each procedure is performed in accordance with the practice standards of each profession. It is necessary to define the powers and responsibilites of nurses, which would allow them to become proactive, acquire a greater level of knowledge and master the necessary skills, and strengthen nursing leadreship, ensuring their role in development of ECMO patient care policy. Effective and safe nursing care for patients on ECMO can only be provided if nurses acquire specific knowledge and skills. The nurses scope of work includes a comprehensive physical assesment, prevention and minimization of complications, and providing support to the patient’s family. During the COVID- 19 pandemic it become clear that there is a need for specialized nurses who care for patients on ECMO.