Clinical perfusionists operate the heart-lung machine during cardiac surgery. To become certified, a bachelor’s degree with emphasis in chemistry, biology, anatomy, or physiology is required, followed by two years of training at an accredited pulmonary training program. The certification process includes two exams and 75 clinical procedures. Clinical perfusionists work as part of a team and must be prepared to adjust the machine if the patient’s condition changes.
A clinical perfusionist is responsible for operating the heart-lung machine of a patient undergoing cardiac surgery. The path to becoming a clinical perfusionist is a difficult one, but the many different tasks required and the responsibility make it an attractive choice for many people. Different countries have different requirements to become a clinical perfusionist, however, most require a similar amount of training and operate under a similar board of directors as in the United States. In the US, the American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusionists handles the certification process.
To become a clinical perfusionist, earn a bachelor of science degree with a strong emphasis in chemistry, biology, anatomy, or physiology. There are two years of additional training required beyond a bachelor’s degree. This training takes place at a school with an accredited pulmonary training program. Upon successful completion of this program, you will be eligible for board and may seek employment as a clinical perfusionist.
The certification process to become a Certified Clinical Perfusionist, or PCC, can begin while you are still enrolled in the two-year training program. If you are currently enrolled in or have graduated from an accredited training program and have participated in 75 clinical procedures, you can complete the first part of the certification process, the Perfusion Basic Science Exam. After gaining employment in the field and completing 50 procedures on your own, you qualify for the Clinical Applications in Perfusion Exam, the second part of the certification process. After successfully completing this portion of the exam, you will become a certified clinical perfusionist and will be able to use the initials CCP after your name.
To become a clinical perfusionist, a solid background and scientific background is not all that is needed. Clinical perfusionists work as part of a team, alongside the surgeon, anesthetist and a support team consisting of physician assistants, nurses and technicians. The clinical perfusionist is responsible for setting up the lung machine and monitoring the patient’s condition during surgery. If the patient’s condition changes during surgery, the perfusionist must accurately convey the problem to the surgeon and anesthesiologist and be prepared to help adjust the machine. During heart bypass surgery, the perfusionist is responsible for pumping blood and oxygen to the patient. This job requires a lot of responsibility and can be very stressful. It is important to understand all areas of responsibility before beginning training to become a clinical perfusionist.
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