Safety Checklists
Standardized safety protocols for all phases of CPB.
Disclaimer
Procedure Phases
Follow the steps sequentially for maximum safety.
Clinical Significance of Checklists
The use of standardized checklists in the cardiac operating room is a well-established safety measure supported by major professional bodies including AmSECT and EBCP. In complex environments like the extracorporeal circuit setup, human error and "fixation loops" can lead to catastrophic consequences.
Error Prevention
Standardized verification ensures that critical steps—such as pump rotation direction, gas supply integrity, and circuit sterility—are never overlooked during high-pressure preparations.
Communication
The "Time Out" and pre-bypass verification steps foster verbal confirmation between the perfusionist, surgeon, and anesthesiologist, aligning the entire team on the patient's specific surgical plan.
Reference: Haynes AB, et al. A surgical safety checklist to reduce morbidity and mortality in a global population. N Engl J Med. 2009.