RESUMEN
BACKGROUND: When compared with open care model, a closed one improves patient care in intensive care units (ICUs), mixed ICUs, surgical ICUs and trauma centers. We wanted to evaluate the benefit of a collaborative care model in highly specialized cardiovascular care unit. METHODS: This study was a retrospective, observational study conducted in the cardiovascular care unit of a teaching hospital. All patients who were above 20 years old and had received cardiovascular operation were enrolled for data collection and analysis. RESULTS: A total of 270 subjects were enrolled for analysis during the 2-year study period. In the collaborative care model, the CVSU length of stay (p = 0.001) and CVSU-free days (p = 0.0008) were significantly better than those in an open care model. DISCUSSION: The collaborative care model improved postoperative outcome in the cardiovascular surgical unit for those needing prolonged ICU care.