Cardiovascular Perfusionist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the modern era of medical technology, cardiovascular perfusionists are the unsung heroes, silently orchestrating the life-saving performances.

As healthcare evolves, so does the demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, enhance and safeguard our cardiovascular health system.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a cardiovascular perfusionist?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to grasp the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager designing the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of cardiovascular perfusion,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable cardiovascular perfusionist job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Duties and Responsibilities

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are vital members of the surgical team who operate extracorporeal circulation equipment and autotransfusion devices during cardiac surgeries and other procedures where circulatory or respiratory function needs to be supported or replaced.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Operating and managing the heart-lung machine to support patients during cardiac surgery and other procedures requiring cardiopulmonary bypass
• Monitoring patients’ blood flow and vital signs during procedures and adjusting equipment accordingly
• Administering necessary drugs and solutions to the patient via the heart-lung machine
• Working collaboratively with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare professionals to manage patient care during surgery
• Conducting preoperative patient assessments and planning appropriate patient care
• Managing autotransfusion systems during surgery to reduce the need for blood transfusions
• Performing blood analysis tests to monitor coagulation, blood gases, and electrolytes during procedures
• Handling and maintaining perfusion equipment, including routine checks, cleaning, and troubleshooting
• Keeping records of all procedures and reporting any unusual events or complications
• Participating in clinical research and staying up-to-date with advancements in perfusion technology

 

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a highly skilled and meticulous Cardiovascular Perfusionist to join our team.

In this role, you will be responsible for operating extracorporeal circulation equipment during any medical procedure where it is necessary to artificially support or temporarily replace a patient’s circulatory or respiratory function.

The Cardiovascular Perfusionist’s responsibilities include monitoring patient’s circulatory and metabolic state, implementing blood conservation strategies and protocols, and administering medications, blood components, and anesthetic agents.

Our ideal candidate is experienced with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) techniques, has a keen eye for detail, and excellent hand-eye coordination.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare and operate extracorporeal circulation equipment, intra-aortic balloon pumps, ventricular assist devices, and other sophisticated medical devices.
• Monitor patient’s physiological responses during surgery and adjust equipment parameters accordingly.
• Administer blood products, anesthetic agents, and medications as needed.
• Participate in patient assessment and care planning.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and sanitized after each procedure.
• Collaborate with surgeons and other medical professionals to achieve optimal patient outcomes.
• Conduct patient follow-up, including data collection and analysis for quality assurance.

 

Qualifications

• Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) credential required.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
• Previous work experience in a related role preferred.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Superb communication and collaboration skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform complex tasks under pressure.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Cardiovascular Perfusionist
• Work Environment: Hospital or clinic setting. The role often involves periods of high stress and pressure, especially during emergencies.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of the Cardiovascular Department or the Chief Surgeon.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $91,500 minimum to $158,900 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Cardiovascular Perfusionist Do?

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are highly specialized healthcare professionals who operate extracorporeal circulation equipment during any medical situation where it is necessary to support or temporarily replace a patient’s circulatory or respiratory function.

They primarily work in the surgical environment, assisting with cardiac and thoracic surgeries.

Their key role is to manage the heart-lung machine, which artificially takes over the functions of the heart and lungs during surgery, allowing surgeons to operate on a still heart.

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are also responsible for administering medications and anesthetic agents through the extracorporeal circuit and monitoring the patient’s altered circulatory process closely.

In addition, they often perform blood conservation techniques, intra-aortic balloon pumping, and isolated limb perfusion for chemotherapy.

They work closely with surgeons, anesthesiologists, and other medical professionals before, during, and after surgeries to ensure the highest standards of care.

Moreover, they play a crucial role in the clinical team, providing support and expertise in the management of patients with severe cardiac and respiratory disorders.

 

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Cardiovascular Perfusionist should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Advanced knowledge of cardiovascular perfusion techniques and procedures, including the use of heart-lung machines, ventricular assist devices, and intra-aortic balloon pumps.
• Understanding of human anatomy, especially the cardiovascular system, to ensure proper machine set-up and patient monitoring.
• Strong technical abilities to operate, troubleshoot, and maintain specialized medical equipment.
• Attention to detail and precision to accurately monitor and adjust machine parameters during surgery based on patient condition.
• Good communication skills to effectively collaborate with surgical teams, discuss patient status, and relay critical information to doctors in a timely manner.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly identify and resolve issues that may arise during surgery.
• Stress management skills to maintain focus and performance during high-pressure situations.
• Compassionate interpersonal skills to provide emotional support to patients and their families, explaining procedures and addressing concerns.
• Physical stamina as the role often requires standing for long periods during surgeries.
• Continuous learning mindset to stay updated with advancements in cardiovascular perfusion technology and procedures.

 

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Experience Requirements

To become a Cardiovascular Perfusionist, a significant amount of educational and practical experience is required.

Typically, an individual must first complete a bachelor’s degree, usually in a science or health-related field.

This is often followed by a two-year postgraduate program in cardiovascular perfusion from an accredited institution.

Most training programs are a combination of classroom instruction and clinical experience, which usually includes a minimum number of supervised procedures.

This allows students to gain hands-on experience in cardiovascular perfusion under the supervision of experienced professionals.

After graduation, individuals are eligible to sit for the certification examination administered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

Successful completion of this examination is a common requirement for employment.

On top of the certification, it is beneficial for a Cardiovascular Perfusionist to have at least 1-2 years of experience in a clinical setting.

This experience can be gained through internships or entry-level positions.

Those with more than 3 years of experience may have developed specialized skills and knowledge.

These professionals are often ready to handle more complex cases or even supervise and train less experienced perfusionists.

Professionals with over 5 years of experience and additional leadership training may be eligible for managerial positions within their department or at a medical facility.

This could involve overseeing the work of multiple perfusionists, coordinating patient care, or managing equipment and resources.

 

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Education and Training Requirements

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are required to have a bachelor’s degree in a related medical or science field, such as biology, chemistry, medical technology, or nursing.

Following this, they must complete a perfusionist certificate or master’s degree program that is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

These specialized programs cover both theoretical and clinical aspects of the perfusionist’s role, including cardiopulmonary bypass, extracorporeal technology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and pathophysiology.

Upon completion of the program, an individual must sit for and pass the certification examination administered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

This certification exam consists of two parts, a multiple-choice written section and a clinical applications section.

To maintain certification, Cardiovascular Perfusionists need to participate in continuing education.

They may also choose to pursue additional certifications in areas such as extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) or ventricular assist devices.

Work experience in a clinical setting is also important, with many employers requiring a minimum number of documented cases as a primary perfusionist.

As the field is rapidly evolving, a commitment to continual learning and staying abreast of the latest technologies and procedures is vital.

 

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Salary Expectations

A Cardiovascular Perfusionist earns an average salary of $128,598 (USD) per year.

The salary may vary based on factors such as level of experience, certifications, geographical location, and the specific healthcare facility where they are employed.

 

Cardiovascular Perfusionist Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Cardiovascular Perfusionist need?

Cardiovascular Perfusionists typically need a bachelor’s degree in a health-related field and a postgraduate degree in perfusion technology.

Licensing requirements vary by state, but most require passing the certification exam administered by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion.

Clinical experience, usually obtained during the degree program, is also essential.

 

What are the daily duties of a Cardiovascular Perfusionist?

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are typically responsible for operating extracorporeal circulation and autotransfusion equipment during any medical situation where it is necessary to support or replace the patient’s cardiopulmonary function.

They may also be involved in the administration of blood products and anesthetic agents, monitoring patients during procedures, and reporting patient information to the healthcare team.

 

What qualities make a good Cardiovascular Perfusionist?

A good Cardiovascular Perfusionist should have a strong understanding of physiology, pharmacology, and the technology used in cardiopulmonary bypass procedures.

They should also have excellent attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure, as they are often responsible for patients’ lives during surgeries.

Good communication and team working skills are also essential, as they must coordinate with surgeons and other healthcare professionals.

 

Is it difficult to hire Cardiovascular Perfusionists?

Hiring Cardiovascular Perfusionists can be a challenge due to the specialized nature of the role and the required educational qualifications and clinical training.

Moreover, the demand for these professionals is high due to the increasing number of cardiovascular procedures performed each year.

It may be beneficial to offer competitive salaries and benefits and provide opportunities for professional development to attract qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the heart of what it truly means to be a Cardiovascular Perfusionist.

Guess what?

It’s not just about operating the heart-lung machine.

It’s about orchestrating the delicate symphony of life and health, one heartbeat at a time.

With our comprehensive Cardiovascular Perfusionist job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to take the plunge.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your next step to crafting pinpoint-accurate job listings or fine-tuning your resume to precision.

Remember:

Every heartbeat is a part of the bigger picture.

Let’s sustain that life. Together.

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