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Abstract
The prevalence of cardiovascular diseases [CVDs] is increasing at an astonishing rate. It is the number one cause of death in the world and every facet of society is feeling its repercussions. Particularly affected are low- and middle-income [LIMI] countries that are struggling to develop. But most importantly is the effect it has on the poor in these developing countries, where families struggle to survive as is.
A number of initiatives have been introduced to address the prevalence of CVDs, but these initiatives are aimed solely at reducing risk factors and not increasing access to health care. Yet cardiac surgery is often the only option for individuals who have diagnosed CVD. It is the aim of non-profit organizations to address this demand and provide these individuals with the life saving surgery they need. To provide cardiac surgery in LIMI countries, these organizations establish relationships with local hospitals. When a relationship has been developed between the non-profit organization and the local hospital, the goal for organizations is to provide cardiac surgery to individuals that would have otherwise not been able to have such an operation. Perfusionists are critical members of the cardiac surgery team because they operate the heart-lung machine during such surgeries. But most perfusionists who volunteer to work on these teams are ill prepared for the trip, which can impact their ability to perform their job well. The goal of this project was to provide a description [based on personal experience] of cardiac surgery mission trips and to generate a series of protocols and guidelines for perfusionists planning on participating in such trips.
After attending the 2014 CardioStart International mission trip to India, the author recognized that guidelines and protocols unique to mission trips should be developed and utilized. Using information acquired from perfusionists with mission trip experience, guidelines were created guide a perfusionist through all aspects of a mission trip. In addition, checklists and protocols are provided that will aid the mission trip team in preparing for their trip and ensuring they are as productive as possible in their unique situation.