Introduction: Our institution had supported 18 patients to heart transplantation, using the Berlin Heart. Child A, had been the first to be bridged and transplanted after 6 months for restrictive cardiomyopathy. This presentation will give guidance on demonstrating accountability and emotional intelligence as best multi-professional approach.

Case Presentation: Child A, had developed worsening pulmonary hypertension with restriction. She presented with gross heart failure and self-ventilating in air. After discussions and planning, it was concluded that in agreement with the family we would offer mechanical bridging.

Multi-professional Approach: Those who participated helped to shape the outcome. The team worked across the domains of organisational boundaries and expertise. Together we had defined issues, designed solutions and delivered high quality services to this family. In hindsight, the decision to support Child A called on competence and negotiating power.


Emotional Intelligence: Uncovering the emotions and driving the team's energy to achieve results are challenging. For Child A and her family we went beyond our expectations. This adaptability and consistency defines the basis of our working culture. The experience had stimulated that higher level of interpersonal sensitivity and supported the confidence in our ability to grow. Also, it had proven that emotional intelligence is more adept to emotional labour.

Conclusion: Bridging to transplantation, using the Berlin Heart, had become characteristic to our service. This gives us that sense of ownership and responsibility. Having this focus and capability had enabled the team to align their thinking, demonstrate self-reflection and consider people when making powerful decisions.