Perfusionist

Responsibilities:

• Use a number of highly technical, mechanical, and electronic devices to ensure that oxygen reaches a patient's body through the blood when the patient's lungs and heart are temporarily not functioning
• control the equipment (heart-lung machine) that temporarily takes over a patient's respiration (breathing)  or circulation of blood (or both) during open-heart surgery.
• have administrative duties, including equipment monitoring and maintenance, management of entry-level perfusionists, and purchasing equipment and supplies
• Assess medical histories of patients to fully prepare for upcoming surgeries
• Administer medications and blood products to patients during surgical procedures through heart-lung bypass machines
• Operate heart-lung machines, intra-aortic blood pumps, ventricular assistance devices, and blood transfusion machines
• Monitor and assess vital signs and physiologic functions throughout surgical procedures to ensure patient safety

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field; a Master’s degree or specialized training in perfusion technology is an advantage.
• Certification as a Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) or equivalent accreditation.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience operating heart-lung machines in surgical settings.
• In-depth knowledge of cardiovascular and respiratory physiology and medical devices used in perfusion.
• Strong critical-thinking skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure during high-stakes procedures.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with surgical teams effectively.
• Commitment to maintaining up-to-date knowledge of advancements in perfusion technology and practices.

Work schedule:

• 3 days per week
• Room and board provided