The QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Cert CTS) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals and individuals seeking to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in the field of cardiothoracic surgery. This course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of cardiac and thoracic anatomy, surgical procedures, pre- and post-operative patient care, and clinical management, ensuring evidence-based and patient-centred practice.
Cardiothoracic surgery is a critical area of medicine that focuses on surgical interventions for the heart, lungs, and thoracic cavity. The Level 3 Certificate in Cardiothoracic Surgery equips learners with the skills to support surgical teams, assess patients, manage perioperative care, and contribute to recovery and rehabilitation. Learners will gain insight into cardiac bypass surgery, thoracic procedures, minimally invasive techniques, and post-operative management.
The course curriculum covers essential topics such as anatomy and physiology of the cardiothoracic system, surgical techniques, patient assessment, perioperative care, and professional practice. Learners will develop practical competencies in surgical preparation, assisting in operations, monitoring patient recovery, and supporting multidisciplinary teams. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, patient safety, and adherence to UK healthcare and surgical standards.
This qualification is suitable for a wide range of healthcare professionals, including surgical nurses, theatre assistants, surgical technologists, and allied health practitioners. It is also ideal for individuals aspiring to specialise in cardiothoracic surgery or advance their career in surgical care and clinical practice.
Completing the QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Cardiothoracic Surgery provides a recognised UK qualification that demonstrates competence, enhances professional credibility, and supports career progression in cardiothoracic surgery and related healthcare fields. Participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that can be applied directly in surgical theatres, clinical settings, and patient care environments, contributing to improved patient outcomes and safe surgical practice.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Cert CTS):
The QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Cert CTS), offers 20 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 100 hours, including 70 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC270108-1 | Cardiothoracic Anatomy and Physiology | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270108-2 | Common Cardiothoracic Surgical Procedures | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270108-3 | Pre-Operative and Patient Assessment | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270108-4 | Perioperative Care and Surgical Assistance | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270108-5 | Post-Operative Management and Professional Practice | 4 | 14 | 20 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Cardiothoracic Surgery (Cert CTS):
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment
- Ensures participants have the maturity to engage in professional and clinical learning
Educational Background
- A Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care, Science, or a related subject is recommended
- Relevant qualifications may include GCSEs, BTECs, NVQs, or equivalent certificates in healthcare, biology, or science
- Provides foundational knowledge in human anatomy, physiology, and basic clinical sciences
Experience
- Previous experience in healthcare, surgical support, or theatre settings is desirable but not mandatory
- Experience may include roles such as surgical nurse, theatre assistant, healthcare assistant, or placements in cardiothoracic or general surgery departments
- Practical exposure helps learners understand patient care, surgical procedures, and professional standards
Language Proficiency
- Strong language skills support accurate reporting, patient communication, and safe clinical practice
- Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and comprehension of course materials
- Evidence of English competency may be required through GCSE English, IELTS, or an equivalent recognised qualification
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Sports Medicine (Cert SM) :
Cardiothoracic Anatomy and Physiology
- Understand the structure and function of the heart, lungs, and thoracic cavity
- Explain cardiovascular and respiratory physiology in surgical contexts
- Recognise anatomical landmarks critical for surgical procedures
- Apply knowledge to support perioperative assessment and care
Common Cardiothoracic Surgical Procedures
- Identify and describe key cardiothoracic surgical procedures
- Understand indications, techniques, and potential complications
- Recognise the role of multidisciplinary teams in surgical care
- Apply theoretical knowledge to support surgical practice safely
Pre-Operative and Patient Assessment
- Conduct patient assessments prior to surgery
- Evaluate risks, comorbidities, and patient suitability for procedures
- Prepare patients and documentation for surgical interventions
- Communicate effectively with patients and surgical teams
Perioperative Care and Surgical Assistance
- Assist surgical teams during cardiothoracic procedures
- Monitor patient condition and support intraoperative care
- Implement aseptic techniques, safety protocols, and infection control
- Respond appropriately to intraoperative emergencies or complications
Post-Operative Management and Professional Practice
- Monitor and manage patients following surgery
- Recognise and respond to post-operative complications
- Apply professional standards, ethics, and safety in surgical care
- Educate patients and families on recovery, rehabilitation, and lifestyle considerations
This course is suitable for individuals seeking to specialise or advance their career in cardiothoracic surgery, including:
- Surgical nurses, theatre assistants, and allied health practitioners
- Healthcare assistants supporting cardiothoracic surgery teams
- Individuals aspiring to work in cardiac or thoracic surgical units
- Professionals aiming to improve patient assessment, surgical support, and perioperative care
- Those seeking recognised UK qualifications to enhance professional credibility in surgical practice
Centres delivering this qualification are expected to:
- Hold accreditation or approval to deliver UK vocational healthcare and surgical qualifications
- Employ qualified trainers and assessors with experience in cardiothoracic surgery or surgical healthcare
- Maintain appropriate facilities and access to operating theatre or clinical resources for practical learning
- Provide structured learning materials, including textbooks, digital content, and clinical guidelines
- Implement robust health and safety, safeguarding, and quality assurance policies
- Offer structured support, mentoring, and assessment feedback to learners
- Maintain accurate records of learner progress and assessment outcomes