Perfusionist

About the role

As assigned by the Chief Perfusionist, and according to prescribed standards, the Perfusionist performs functions necessary for the support, treatment, measurement, and/or supplementation of the cardiopulmonary and/or circulatory system of the patient. The Perfusionist performs advanced technical work in the selection, preparation, operation, and maintenance of cardiopulmonary bypass and ancillary equipment. This role involves close cooperation with attending physicians in extra-corporeal perfusion practices, primarily in the cardiovascular operating room, with potential work in other areas within the Health System. This position requires travel, on-call duties for multiple hospitals, ECMO coverage, and in/out of hospital ECMO transport.

Responsibilities

• Performs functions necessary for the support, treatment, measurement, and/or supplementation of the cardiopulmonary and/or circulatory system of the patient, demonstrating a working knowledge of cardiopulmonary bypass equipment, anatomy, physiology, physics, and mechanics.
• Recognizes and reacts appropriately to critical situations, including proper communication with the attending surgeon and making necessary changes in therapy (e.g., administration of medication, anesthetic gases, and blood components).
• Documents aspects of cardiopulmonary bypass in an appropriate and timely manner.
• Demonstrates a working knowledge of cardioplegia delivery systems (antegrade, retrograde, and cerebral perfusion), autotransfusion, intra-aortic balloon pumps, ventricular assist devices, and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO).
• Operates and maintains perfusion equipment, including blood gas analyzers and activated clotting time machines, with routine quality control.
• Prepares for cases by selecting necessary supplies, assembling and preparing perfusion equipment (e.g., cardiopulmonary bypass system, cardioplegia delivery system, ultrafiltration, autotransfusion), and completing perfusion records and related paperwork.
• Demonstrates awareness of hazards of body fluids, proper precautions, and disposition of soiled equipment.
• Manages equipment and supply maintenance, including cleaning equipment, maintaining supplies in perfusion carts, and tracking inventory levels.
• Communicates effectively using good interpersonal skills, delivering information in a supportive, timely, and understandable manner, and resolving conflicts appropriately.
• Performs other duties as assigned and complies with all Wellstar Health System policies, standards of work, and code of conduct.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Medical Science.
• Georgia Clinical Perfusionist License (GCPL).
• Basic Life Support (BLS) certification or equivalent (e.g., ARC-BLS, BLS-I).
• If a new graduate of an accredited perfusion program, American Board of Cardiovascular Perfusion certification must be completed within 12 months of start date.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience.
• Completion of an Accredited Cardiovascular Perfusion Program (preferred).

Skills

• Extensive knowledge of coronary heart disease, cardiac anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, and clinical management of patients.
• Ability to work within a team environment with individuals of varying abilities and responsibilities.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to interact with physicians to provide data interpretation.
• Ability to handle emergency and stressful situations, take call, and travel as required.
• Extensive knowledge of perfusion practices, equipment, cardiovascular surgery procedures, and terminology.