Training

CPD

After consultation with the RCOA, the following six topics have been agreed by the ACTA committee for Level 3 CPD in cardiothoracic anaesthesia and critical care

1. Cardiopulmonary Bypass
2. Cardiothoracic Anaesthesia
3. Cardiothoracic Critical Care
4. Congenital  Heart Disease
5. Echocardiography
6. Mechanical and Pharmacological Circulatory Support

Recommended local requirements to support training

Cardiac Surgery

• Cardiac surgery must take place in theatres equipped to a high standard for anaesthesia and monitoring with facilities for cardiopulmonary bypass   and mechanical support of the circulation. 
• Rapid access to biochemistry and haematology services.
• Each cardiac unit must have a consultant anaesthetist with dedicated   responsibility for cardiac anaesthetic services.
• There must be appropriate support facilities provided.
• Extensive patient monitoring is required.
• Adequate critical care facilities must be provided
• There must be resident medical staff cover of the intensive care unit
• There must be an ongoing, adequately resourced, audit programme.

Thoracic Surgery

• On-site pulmonary function laboratory facilities must be available.
• Patients must be managed in an area equipped and staffed to a high standard.
• Patients may routinely return to a high dependency care facility, however, supporting intensive care facilities should also be easily accessible.
• Pain relief and other clinical protocols must be clearly defined.