Implementing a Preoperative Anemia Optimization Protocol for Cardiovascular Surgery Patients: A Quality Improvement Project.

Background: Patients with anemia have poorer outcomes following cardiac surgery than do those without anemia. To improve outcomes, the Enhanced Recovery After Surgery cardiac recommendations include optimizing patients' condition, including treating anemia, before surgery.

Local Problem: Despite implementing Enhanced Recovery After Surgery initiatives, a midwestern cardiothoracic surgery group recognized a care gap in preoperative patients with anemia.