Cardiac surgery team

During your child’s cardiac surgery journey, you will meet a number of staff who will be involved in your child’s care.

Cardiology and cardiothoracic medical team

The medical team consist of cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, cardiology and cardiothoracic fellows, a registrar and a resident. 

In the Intensive Care Unit, doctors will manage your child’s care with the cardiac team. 

The resident and registrar are based on the ward and will be caring for your child with the cardiologists and surgeons.

Every morning in rounds members of the cardiac team will review your child and plan their care for the day. 

Your child’s cardiologist will remain informed of your child’s progress, however they may not be present in rounds. 

Anaesthetist

The anaesthetist plays a crucial role in your child's cardiac surgery by ensuring they remain safe and comfortable throughout the procedure. 

They are responsible for administering anaesthesia, monitoring vital signs, and managing pain, which allows the surgical team to focus on the operation. 

The anaesthetist also provides support before and after surgery, helping to optimise your child's recovery.

Perfusion team

A perfusionist works closely with the cardiac surgeons and anaesthetic team during your child’s surgery. 

They are responsible for operating the Cardiopulmonary Bypass Machine (heart-lung machine) during open heart surgery.  

Nursing staff

During each shift, your child will have a designated nurse who will manage their daily care. A nursing team leader will also be on each shift and is available if you have any questions or concerns.

The NUM (Nurse Unit Manager) oversees the ward and supports both staff and families. If you have any issues that you cannot resolve with your child’s nurse, the NUM is a good person to approach.

Cardiac Nurse Practitioners (NPs), Clinical Nurse Consultants (CNCs), and Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNSs) are experienced registered nurses who provide expert care in specific areas. They are available to offer advice and support to families, other nurses, and medical staff. They also help coordinate your child’s overall care, including discharge from hospital and referrals to support services.

Physiologist

The Physiology team is responsible for doing a number of cardiac tests including electrocardiograms (ECG), Holter monitoring, stress tests and sometimes pacemaker checks. They will  help monitor your child’s vital signs during surgery. 

Sonographer

Sonographers will perform the echocardiogram (cardiac ultrasound) before, during and after your child’s surgery.