Global Perfusion Practice Survey: Readiness of On-Call and Emergency Operation Rooms

TL;DR

This survey explores perfusion practices in emergency cardiac surgery to identify gaps and improve patient safety.

Contribution

The study provides insights into perfusion readiness preferences and challenges in on-call and emergency settings.

Findings

53% of respondents preferred a dry circuit for emergencies, while 19.9% preferred primed circuits.

Factors like caseload, surgeon preferences, and team dynamics influenced circuit readiness choices.

The survey highlights the need for standardized protocols to enhance perfusion safety.

Abstract

Perfusion safety in cardiac surgery is vital, and this survey explores
perfusion practices, perspectives, and challenges related to it.
Specifically, it examines the readiness of on-call and emergency operation
rooms for perfusion-related procedures during urgent situations. The aim is
to identify gaps and enhance perfusion safety protocols, ultimately
improving patient care.

This was a preliminary survey conducted as an initial exploration before
committing to a comprehensive study. The sample size was primarily
determined based on a one-month time frame. The survey collected data from
236 healthcare professionals, including cardiac surgeons, perfusionists, and
anesthetists, using an online platform. Ethical considerations ensured
participant anonymity and voluntary participation. The survey comprised
multiple-choice and open-ended questions to gather quantitative and
qualitative data.

The survey found that 53% preferred a dry circuit ready for emergencies,
19.9% preferred primed circuits, and 19.1% chose not to have a ready pump at
all. Various reasons influenced these choices, including caseload
variations, response times, historical practices, surgeon preferences, and
backup perfusionist availability. Infection risk, concerns about error, and
team dynamics were additional factors affecting circuit readiness.

This survey sheds light on current perfusion practices and challenges,
emphasizing the importance of standardized protocols in regards to readiness
of on-call and emergency operation rooms. It provides valuable insights for
advancing perfusion safety and patient care while contributing to the
existing literature on the subject.

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