Cardiac Operating Room Setup and Preparation of the Patient for Surgery

Abstract

Cardiac surgery is complicated. Cardiac surgery patients may have serious comorbidities, and mortality rates may be relatively high. Exquisite attention to detail is required to ensure patient safety and favorable outcomes. Details that are overlooked can lead to tragedy. Setting the stage for cardiac surgery requires advanced planning, and specific considerations should be addressed before starting the setup. The main points to consider are the need for seamless transition to and from cardiopulmonary bypass and the limited cardiovascular reserve that the patients may have.

This chapter has three sections. Section one describes the formulation of the anesthetic plan before surgery. Section two presents the essential requirements and the room set-up for adult cardiac surgery. Section three reviews the steps to be taken before the patient is ready for induction of anesthesia.

Prior proper planning and preparation prevent piss poor performance.

—James Baker