Our Summary

This research paper talks about a shadowing program where undergraduate students got a chance to observe doctors at the University of Florida’s Congenital Heart Center. The aim was to see if this program could encourage more students to consider careers in medicine and cardiothoracic surgery.

The researchers sent out surveys to the students who participated in the program. They wanted to know whether the students had any family members who were doctors, if they had been exposed to a medical setting before this program, and if they were interested in medicine and cardiothoracic surgery before and after the shadowing experience.

Out of 37 students who were part of the program, 26 responded to the survey. Majority of them were women and the average age was around 21 years. On average, students spent about 95 hours observing the doctors.

The results showed that students were more interested in medicine, surgery, and cardiothoracic surgery after their shadowing experience. Students who had a family member in the medical field had more exposure to clinical settings before the program. The study concluded that such shadowing programs could positively influence students’ views about a career in medicine and surgery. It also suggested that students without any family members in medicine could benefit more from these programs as they tend to have less exposure to the medical field.

FAQs

  1. What was the purpose of the shadowing program at the University of Florida’s Congenital Heart Center?
  2. What were the results of the surveys sent out to the students who participated in the shadowing program?
  3. How did the shadowing program influence students’ views about a career in medicine and surgery, according to the study?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might give a patient about cardiac surgery is to follow the post-operative care instructions carefully. This may include recommendations for physical activity, medication management, dietary changes, and follow-up appointments. Adhering to these guidelines can help ensure a successful recovery and reduce the risk of complications.

Suitable For

In terms of the patients typically recommended for cardiac surgery, it is important to note that cardiac surgery is often recommended for patients with serious heart conditions that cannot be managed through medication or other less invasive procedures. Some common types of patients who may be recommended for cardiac surgery include individuals with coronary artery disease, heart valve disease, congenital heart defects, and certain types of heart failure.

Patients with severe blockages in their coronary arteries may be recommended for coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery to improve blood flow to the heart muscle. Patients with heart valve disease, such as aortic stenosis or mitral regurgitation, may require valve repair or replacement surgery to restore proper valve function.

Individuals born with congenital heart defects may require surgical interventions to correct structural abnormalities in the heart. Patients with advanced heart failure may be candidates for heart transplant surgery or mechanical circulatory support devices, such as ventricular assist devices (VADs).

Overall, cardiac surgery is typically recommended for patients with significant heart conditions that cannot be effectively managed through other treatment options. It is important for patients to consult with a cardiac surgeon and other members of their healthcare team to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for their individual needs.

Timeline

Before cardiac surgery:

  • Patient experiences symptoms of heart disease such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, etc.
  • Patient undergoes various diagnostic tests such as ECG, echocardiogram, stress test, etc. to determine the extent of heart disease.
  • Patient consults with a cardiologist and a cardiothoracic surgeon to discuss treatment options.
  • Patient is informed about the risks and benefits of cardiac surgery and gives consent for the procedure.

After cardiac surgery:

  • Patient is admitted to the hospital and undergoes pre-operative preparations.
  • Patient undergoes the cardiac surgery procedure, which could involve bypass surgery, valve repair/replacement, etc.
  • Patient is closely monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) immediately after surgery.
  • Patient is gradually weaned off mechanical ventilation and other support systems.
  • Patient starts rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and function.
  • Patient is discharged from the hospital and continues follow-up appointments with their medical team.
  • Patient makes lifestyle changes to prevent future heart disease complications.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about cardiac surgery include:

  1. What specific type of cardiac surgery do you recommend for my condition?
  2. What are the potential risks and complications associated with this surgery?
  3. What is the success rate of this surgery for patients with similar conditions?
  4. How long is the recovery process expected to be, and what can I do to aid in my recovery?
  5. Are there any alternative treatment options to consider before proceeding with surgery?
  6. How many times have you performed this type of surgery, and what is your success rate?
  7. Will I need any additional tests or evaluations before the surgery?
  8. What type of anesthesia will be used during the surgery, and what are the potential side effects?
  9. Will I need to make any lifestyle changes or take medication after the surgery?
  10. What is the long-term prognosis for my condition after undergoing this surgery?

Reference

Authors: Brennan Z, Purlee M, Sharaf OM, Badhwar IE, Brown C, Kugler L, Weinstein DJ, Bassuk JS, Baydoun Y, Neal D, Stukov Y, Freeman K, Wallen T, Peek GJ, Bleiweis MS, Jacobs JP. Journal: Cardiol Young. 2023 Apr;33(4):514-519. doi: 10.1017/S1047951123000549. PMID: 37132393