Authors

• Matko Filipović — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0003-0233-2108
• Jurica Kotarac — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0009-0001-7062-6231
• Lucija Mičik — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0002-9650-4451
• Matija Vrbanić — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0002-3229-9436
• Andreja Virt — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0002-0442-4025
• Biljana Hržić — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0001-5441-0900
• Marina Budetić — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0002-1165-7097
• Kristijana Radić — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0002-6098-254X
• Ivica Benko — Dubrava University Hospital, Zagreb, Croatia — ORCID: 0000-0002-1878-0880

Keywords

transcatheter aortic valve implantation coordinator, multidisciplinary team, patient care

DOI

Full Text

The role of a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (TAVI) coordinator is essential in managing the growing complexity of TAVI procedures. Acting as the central link between patients, families, and the multidisciplinary medical team, the TAVI coordinator ensures the seamless coordination of care from pre-procedural assessment to post-operative management. Effective communication is key to optimizing patient outcomes and minimizing risks. Nurse coordinators in particular play a critical role in educating patients, scheduling tests, and facilitating decision-making between cardiologists, surgeons, and other healthcare professionals. Studies have shown that dedicated TAVI coordinators significantly enhance patient outcomes by improving procedural efficiency, reducing hospital stays, and minimizing post-procedure complications. In addition, the presence of a coordinator promotes continuity of care, ensuring that all stakeholders are well-informed at each stage of the patient’s journey. Challenges faced by TAVI coordinators include managing the high volume of elderly patients with complex comorbidities, organizing multidisciplinary team meetings, and addressing logistical hurdles in pre- and post-procedural care. TAVI coordinators also play a key role in post-discharge follow-up, monitoring recovery and ensuring adherence to prescribed therapies. Their role extends to addressing patient concerns, managing complications, and reducing the readmission rate by providing ongoing education and support. (1, 2) In conclusion, the TAVI coordinator serves as a crucial element in modern TAVI programs, enhancing patient care through multidisciplinary collaboration, ensuring smooth procedural workflows, and addressing the unique challenges posed by an aging patient population.

Literature

1. Lauck S, Forman J, Borregaard B, Sathananthan J, Achtem L, McCalmont G, et al. Facilitating transcatheter aortic valve implantation in the era of COVID-19: Recommendations for programmes. Eur J Cardiovasc Nurs. 2020 August;19(6):537–44. https://doi.org/10.1177/1474515120934057
2. Bohmann K, Burgdorf C, Zeus T, Joner M, Alvarez H, Berning KL, et al. The COORDINATE Pilot Study: Impact of a Transcatheter Aortic Valve Coordinator Program on Hospital and Patient Outcomes. J Clin Med. 2022 February 23;11(5):1205. https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm11051205