Perfusionist

Title: Perfusionist Job Code: T1034 Department: Cardiothoracic Perfusion Department Code: 007105 Job Summary The Perfusionist is responsible for the preparation, setup, sterilization, checking, adjustment, operation, and monitoring of perfusion equipment, including the extracorporeal pump and related devices used in open heart surgery and other procedures to perfuse a patient's blood. These responsibilities extend from the preliminary stages through surgery and post‑operative stages. The role may function as a team leader, responsible for repairs and electronic adjustments to the pump oxygenator and maintaining adequate inventory of replaceable items. The perfusionist provides training and leadership to new members of the perfusion staff, house staff, nurses, and technicians and performs related work as required. Responsibilities Prepares operating room by setting up equipment for extracorporeal pump for open heart surgery and other medical procedures, including bringing in solutions, blood, medical supplies, filters, and tubes. Sets up extracorporeal pump for a particular case depending on age, weight, and type of heart problem. Selects and assembles ancillary supplies and equipment including autotransfusion, ultrafiltration, potassium and calcium analyzer, anticoagulation assay equipment, in‑line blood gases, and chemistry monitoring. Operates the equipment during clinical open heart surgery and related procedures, including long‑term circulatory and/or respiratory support, or left and right heart support. Checks the proper operation of the extracorporeal pump, including adjusting pump heads to prevent destruction of blood cells, ensuring proper functioning of component parts and connectors, and verifying electronic operation of pump accessories. Obtains blood, checks type and identification for patient, prepares blood, solutions, and components for use in the extracorporeal pump, including sterile tubing, primes all lines, and ensures bubble‑free lines. Performs, uses and analyzes results from point‑of‑care tests and instruments used to monitor coagulation, blood gas, blood chemistry, hemoglobin, and hematocrit, pursuant to an order and under the direction and supervision of a licensed physician. Monitors operation of the extracorporeal pump during open heart surgery for proper functioning, blood dynamics, drug dilution levels, patient temperature, and control of hot and cold water to maintain blood temperature as per surgeon’s instructions. Adds drugs to correct imbalance of blood chemistry and to the perfusate during the procedure. Calibrates pump flows and occlusion of the pump head. Makes necessary corrections during machine malfunction by manual methods as circumstances dictate, without directions. Maintains continuous oral communication with the surgeon and anesthesiologist. Controls patient temperature by operating the cooling or rewarming mechanisms for the blood. Receives blood for perfusion from the Blood Bank or donor, checks, labels, and infuses properly. Keeps records of the patient during the surgical procedure in relation to perfusion rate, oxygenation flow rate, temperature, blood chemistries, and time of perfusion. Disassembles and cleans equipment at conclusion of surgery. Trains house staff, technicians, and nursing personnel in the use of the pump oxygenator in relation to open heart surgery. Effectively uses automated systems to perform work assignments. Qualifications / Requirements Experience: Welcoming all applicants, no experience needed. Education: Graduate of a CAAHEP accredited school of cardiovascular perfusion, required. Licenses / Certifications Possession of a license and current registration issued by the New York State Education Department as a Perfusionist. Holder of a limited permit as a Perfusionist may be appointed on a temporary basis. Limited permits are issued for one year and may be renewed for one additional year. Candidates who fail to pass the credentialing examination within the maximum two‑year period may not practice as a Perfusionist beyond the expiration date of the renewed limited permit. Other Thorough knowledge of the operation, monitoring, and maintenance of an extracorporeal pump and related perfusion equipment; thorough knowledge of medical technology; good knowledge of the techniques, procedures, and equipment used in a surgical research laboratory; ability to keep accurate records of vital statistical and replaceable items; ability to work as a member of a surgical team; ability to work under stressful and emergency conditions; ability to repair and adjust equipment quickly; reliability; accuracy; sound judgment; physical condition commensurate with the demands of the position. Special Requirements N/A #J-18808-Ljbffr