Patient selection: cardiac surgery
Respiratory parameters:
(1) able to maintain a patent airway without the need for advanced respiratory support
(2) adequate oxygenation with PaO2 > 9 kPa and percutaneous oxygen saturation > 94% on FIO2 < 0.5
(3) achieve adequate ventilation (with PaCO2 < 6 kPa for patient without COPD)
(4) respiratory rate < 20 breaths per minute
Cardiovascular parameters:
(1) normal sinus rhythm or preoperative rhythm (includes atrial fibrillation if adequate rate control)
(2) heart rate 60-100 beats per minute
(3) hemodynamically stable
(4) not receiving inotropes or vasopressors
(5) serum lactate < 2 mmol/L
(6) chest drain < 50 mL/h without ongoing blood loss
(7) hemoglobin > 80 g/L
Other parameters:
(1) urine output > 0.5 mL per kg per hour
(2) adequate analgesia without IV morphine
(3) alert and oriented if possible, else preoperative neurological status
(4) able to tolerate oral intake of fluids
(5) normal body temperature (< 37.5°C)
where:
• Some exceptions can be made if the patient is going to a step-down unit or specialized care unit or if the patient is being monitored.
