Function: 
Operates extracorporeal circulation equipment during any operation requiring cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) where it is necessary to support or temporarily replace the patient's circulatory or respiratory function. 
Selects appropriate equipment and techniques and provides safe management of physiologic functions by monitoring the necessary variables on CPB, including arterial blood gases, hemoglobin/hematocrit, venous saturation, cardiac index, electrolytes, temperature, anticoagulation, and urinary output. 
Supports implantation and prolonged management of Mechanical Circulatory Assist Devices (MCADs), including right ventricular assist devices (RVADs), left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), biventricular assist devices (BiVADs), total artificial hearts (TAHs), and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). 
Uses clinical and technical expertise to help select and manage the appropriate MCAD for each patient; integrates knowledge of advanced pathophysiology to assess, plan, and coordinate care for patients on MCADs. 
Works with cardiothoracic surgery service to monitor patient outcomes. 
Assists cardiothoracic surgeon with harvesting and transporting organs for transplantation; administers cardioplegia and helps prepare the heart for transplantation. 
Participates in cardiothoracic and anesthesia research and education projects. 

Problem Solving: 
Follows established problem solving methods relating to the age and health status of the patient, the type of surgical procedure, and the surgeon. 
When providing extracorporeal circulation and MCAD support, remains alert to mechanical difficulties or changes in the patient's hemodynamic or metabolic state and properly responds independently to correct any deficiency since delays could be fatal to the patient. 
Under the direction of the surgeon and anesthesiologist, makes multiple decisions under the pressure of critical surgical situations. 

Accountability: 
Responsible for the proper maintenance, selection, assembly, and operation of many different heart and lung support systems. 
Reacts appropriately and without hesitation to directions from the surgeon and anesthesiologist during surgery. 
Under direction of cardiothoracic surgeons and the cardiothoracic surgery service, works outside the operating room and assists with support devices in the ICU, Cardiac Catheterization Lab, and elsewhere throughout the hospital. 
Uses independent judgment within area of expertise.

Completion of a Perfusion Technology Program accredited by the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion (ABCP)Flexible, rotating shifts are required. Coverage of service is seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day. Incumbent is on-call weekdays and weekends and may work many unscheduled hours. 
Must have mechanical aptitude for working with complex equipment on a daily basis. 
Must exercise proper precautions working around machinery with moving parts and avoiding potential exposure to patient blood and body fluids. 
Must be able to stand, sit, and work for long periods without a break. 
Must be able to bend, kneel, and push heavy consoles. 
Must have full use of both hands and both legs.

License or Certification

Must be credentialed by the ABCP as a Certified Clinical Perfusionist (CCP) or be eligible for board certification. 
Must maintain certification and continued educational credits related to the perfusionist's discipline. 
Basic Life Support certification is required upon hire and must be valid for 90 days or greater from start date. Maintains Basic Life Support (BLS) competency.