What qualifications are required to become a Perfusionist?
In order to become a Perfusionist, you must complete an accredited perfusion program and obtain the Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) credential. The program typically takes two to three years and includes the study of anatomy, physiology, and chemistry. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire Perfusionists who have a degree in a related field, such as biomedical engineering, pre-medicine, or healthcare technology.
Other Questions about Perfusionist
- What is a Perfusionist?
A perfusionist is a healthcare professional who operates a heart-lung machine during open-heart surgery. They are responsible for monitoring and adjusting the machine to ensure it is providing the patient with the optimal levels of oxygen, blood flow, and other vital functions. They may also be responsible for managing the ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) machine, which can provide long-term life support for critically ill patients.
- What is the average salary of a Perfusionist?
The average salary for a perfusionist is $92,075 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- What do Perfusionists do?
Perfusionists are highly trained professionals who operate cardiopulmonary bypass machines during open-heart surgery. They are responsible for monitoring and controlling the blood flow to the patient's body during the surgery, as well as providing a variety of cardiac and other life-support techniques. They are also responsible for setting up and maintaining the cardiovascular and support equipment used during surgery. Additionally, perfusionists are responsible for calibrating, maintaining, and troubleshooting the cardiopulmonary bypass machine.
- What type of education is needed to become a Perfusionist?
To become a perfusionist, one must complete a perfusion technology program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs. These programs typically require a bachelor's degree in a science field such as biology, chemistry, or physiology. After completing the program, graduates must pass the Certified Clinical Perfusionist Exam to become certified and eligible for employment.
- What does it mean to be certified as a Perfusionist?
Being certified as a perfusionist means that an individual has passed an intensive educational and clinical training program, and has been certified by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP). This certification is proof of an individual’s proficiency in the field of perfusion, and ensures that they are able to safely and accurately operate perfusion machines and provide other critical services to patients during cardiac surgeries.