CARDIAC OT POCKET CHECKLIST
Efficient. Sterile. Life-Saving.
Inspired by Dr. Dhiren Shah’s surgical standards
BEFORE PATIENT ENTERS OT
Review patient consent, surgical plan, and history
Verify blood availability, valve/graft type (if applicable)
Check functionality:
OT lights, cautery, suction
ECG monitor, defibrillator
Perfusion system (if bypass involved)
Ensure sterile trays & instruments are ready:
Sternotomy set
Valve/graft/prosthesis trays
Extra sutures, blades, gauze
Count instruments, sharps, and swabs (document start count)
Confirm patient ID, surgical site, and allergies with team
IMMEDIATELY BEFORE INCISION
Time-out performed: confirm correct patient, site, and procedure
Skin prep and draping completed
Antibiotics administered
Cardiopulmonary bypass setup verified (if needed)
Pacing wires, cannulas, and clamps kept ready
INTRAOPERATIVE: STAY PROACTIVE
Anticipate next steps – hand over before being asked
Monitor suction and field visibility
Keep suture materials organized and counted
Communicate clearly, concisely, and respectfully
Reinforce sterile barrier – correct breaches immediately
Record clamp time, bypass time, and heparin administration accurately
POST-PROCEDURE CHECKLIST
Final count of instruments, gauze, and sharps
Label and send any specimens collected
Document implant details (size, type, serial number)
Assist with drain placement and wound dressing
Remove drapes carefully and apply final dressings
Handover to ICU nurse/doctor with brief clinical summary
Clean, sterilize, and restock instruments
Reorder any special items used during the case
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
Crash cart stocked and accessible
Emergency sternal saw, vascular clamps, pacing wires ready
Defibrillator charged and functional
Backup suction and oxygen connections available
BEHAVIOUR & HYGIENE STANDARDS
Maintain silence and surgical focus inside OT
No casual talk, jokes, or mobile use
Use double gloves when appropriate
Follow strict hand hygiene between tasks
Maintain patient dignity and respect at all times
CORE PRINCIPLES
Be Alert
Anticipate the Surgeon’s Needs
Assist Actively
Maintain Accountability
Act Respectfully at All Times
Imported from Dr. Dhiren Shah’s Education portal. For a personalised interpretation of this information, request an appointment with Dr. Dhiren Shah.
Ready to discuss your heart care?
Request an appointment
Share your details and the team will contact you to confirm availability.