420 An NP managed cardiac surgery follow-up clinic: A randomized controlled trial demonstrating improved patient outcomes

Abstract

Advances in technology and peri-operative care have led to rapid recovery and earlier discharge following cardiac surgery. However, the limited time for discharge teaching to patients who may not be cognitively or emotionally able to comprehend and retain the information can have negative consequences. Furthermore, cardiac surgery patients experience a variety of health-related issues following discharge. Nevertheless, the shortened length of stay has generally not been accompanied by an increased focus on follow-up care.