Objective To explore the core competence of ECMO specialist nurses in China and to provide standards for training ECMO specialist nurses. Methods With qualitative research methods,semi-structured interviews were conducted among 10 nurses who managed ECMO independently,3 ICU physicians,2 perfusionists and 3 head nurses. Content analysis was used to summarize and extract the theme. Results 7 themes were extracted,including professional knowledge,clinical practice ability,critical thinking ability,professional development ability,communication and coordination ability,management ability,and personal traits. Conclusion The core competences of ECMO specialist nurses are comprehensive. It is necessary to pay attention to and strengthen these 7 core competences of ECMO specialist nurses,so as to meet the needs of ECMO specialized nursing development.