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Mediastinal exploration in the surgical intensive care unit
1Surgical Services, Texsan Heart Hospital, San Antonio, 78201, USA. roberta.Schultz@texsanheart.com
Dimensions of Critical Care Nursing : DCCN
|January 22, 2004
Summary
A new continuing education program trains surgical intensive care unit (SICU) nurses to assist in emergent mediastinal reexplorations for post-cardiac surgery patients. This program addresses a critical need when operating room teams are unavailable.
Area of Science:
- Cardiothoracic Surgery
- Critical Care Nursing
- Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU) Education
Background:
- A need exists for SICU nurses to assist in emergent mediastinal reexploration in postcardiac surgical patients.
- Operating room team unavailability poses a challenge during critical post-cardiac surgery interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and implement a continuing education program for SICU nurses.
- To equip experienced SICU nurses with the skills to assist in emergent mediastinal reexploration.
Main Methods:
- Needs assessment within the SICU.
- Development of a specialized continuing education curriculum.
- Targeted training for experienced critical care nurses.
Main Results:
- A comprehensive continuing education program was successfully developed.
- The program addresses a specific skill gap in SICU nursing practice.
- Experienced SICU nurses are prepared to support emergent procedures.
Conclusions:
- The developed program enhances the capability of SICU nurses.
- This initiative improves patient safety and care during critical cardiac surgery recovery.
- Bridging the gap in surgical team availability is crucial for patient outcomes.