PERFUSIONIST
Perfusionists are healthcare professionals who are responsible for the heart-lung machine during certain surgeries. Patients undergoing open heart surgery require life support from a heart-lung machine. This miraculous machine actually takes over the normal functions of the heart and lungs during the surgical procedure. This machine is responsible for regulating oxygen, carbon dioxide, blood chemistry, and circulation during the surgery.
Perfusionists are life-sustaining members of the surgical team; their expert knowledge and skills ensure the patient’s quality of life following the operation. Perfusionists must be quick-witted and able to respond without hesitation to problems occurring with either the patient or the equipment.
HOW DO I BECOME A PERFUSIONIST?
While in high school it is recommended that you take courses in basic mathematics, English, and the physical and biological sciences.
High school graduation or its equivalency (GED) is required to enter into a perfusion, or extra-corporeal technology training program. To become a perfusionist in Louisiana, you must possess a four-year baccalaureate degree in a biological or physical science from an accredited college or university and hold a minimum grade point average of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale in the sciences and mathematics courses. The perfusion program offered in Louisiana takes one year to complete and is accredited by the Committee on Allied Health Education and Accreditation.
WHAT WILL I LEARN IN PERFUSIONIST TRAINING?
Training includes the study of heart/lung bypass, long-term life support, monitoring of the patient, and special technologies. To practice as a perfusionist, you must pass an examination by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP).
WORK ENVIRONMENT
Perfusionists usually work at hospitals, for physicians and as independent contractors. Some may be hired by medical service groups.
PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:
American Academy of Cardiovascular Perfusion
515A East Main Street
Annville, PA 17003
(717) 867- 1485
www.theaacp.com