Table 1.

How experts voted for each characteristic that defines the term “complication after cardiac surgery” (N=38).

Theme	Complication characteristic	Results, n (%)
The event can have an impact on patient’s survival or quality of life and longevity.	Affects quality of life	35 (92)
The complication must be present following cardiac surgery, specifically.	Following cardiac surgery, specifically	33 (87)
The event must occur after surgery and is unlikely to occur if the patient did not have the surgery.	Due to surgical process	33 (87)
The event must be harmful or unfavorable.	Adverse event	28 (74)
The event can have an impact on hospital length of stay.	Delay in hospital discharge	28 (74)
Due to the event, the patient might have to stay in the hospital for longer and can adversely affect rapid recovery to good health.	Delay in recovery	28 (74)
The event can be expected but unplanned.	Unplanned	27 (71)
The event can be unexpected.	Unexpected	23 (61)