The Data Manager FTE Recommendations offers strategic guidance on allocating Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) across cardiac data registries statewide. Based on detailed analysis of abstraction time and related tasks, these recommendations aim to balance workloads, enhance data quality, and support staff well-being.

The VCSQI RBC Protocol is a statewide guideline to reduce unnecessary blood transfusions in cardiac surgery. It provides clear, evidence-based transfusion triggers, post-op care recommendations, and a 9–12 point blood conservation plan—cutting transfusion rates from 70% to as low as 12%. The protocol also highlights gender differences in outcomes, helping teams deliver safer, more efficient care.

The VCSQIVHAC Readmission and Calculator is a user-friendly tool developed by VHHA and VCSQI to help cardiac teams predict readmission risks following Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG). By combining clinical, organizational, and socioeconomic data, the calculator delivers personalized risk scores that guide post-op care planning.

Designed to support better outcomes and reduce readmissions, this tool empowers providers to take a more holistic, data-driven approach to patient recovery. The document offers a step-by-step guide for effective use—an essential resource for improving CABG patient management.

The VCSQI Readmissions Protocol is a practical guide to reducing hospital readmissions after cardiac surgery. Developed by VCSQI experts, it outlines targeted strategies across three phases—before surgery, after surgery, and after discharge—to address risk factors and improve outcomes.

Key elements include proactive discharge planning, patient and family education, post-op monitoring, and post-discharge support like home monitoring and cardiac rehab. Standardizing these practices helps reduce care variability, enhance recovery, and lower costs.

The VCSQI Prolonged Ventilation protocol provides actionable guidance to reduce prolonged ventilation (over 24 hours) in cardiac surgery patients—a key factor in improving outcomes, optimizing resources, and lowering hospital costs. Developed by VCSQI, this evidence-based guideline explains the STS-defined threshold, shares outcome data, and outlines practical strategies like proactive extubation planning and team-driven improvement goals.

Ideal for clinical teams focused on quality care, this guide supports safer, faster recoveries and better performance metrics in cardiac surgery.

The VCSQI Atrial Fibrillation Prophylaxis Protocol is a structured, evidence-based guide to preventing post-op atrial fibrillation in cardiac surgery patients. Developed by VCSQI, the protocol covers pre-op to post-discharge care, focusing on medication strategies like Amiodarone and Lopressor with clear dosing and exclusion criteria.

It includes guidance on prevention, treatment of breakthrough AFib, heart rate management, and use of pacing and anticoagulation. A vital resource for cardiac teams, it helps reduce complications, shorten hospital stays, and improve patient recovery.

The VCSQI AKI Reduction Recommendations and Suggestions for Care is a comprehensive set of guidelines developed by the VCSQI AKI Workgroup to help reduce the risk of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) in cardiac procedures. Originally released in January 2022 and revised in January 2023, the document provides actionable preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative strategies for cardiology and surgical teams. Recommendations include managing nephrotoxic risks, optimizing fluid and contrast use, and closely monitoring kidney function—all aimed at improving patient outcomes.